Multi-purpose combination snowshoe/ski

ABSTRACT

A multi-purpose ski/snowshoe, with a winged frame, an articulated foot plate, and interchangeable bottom surface plugs is described. The multi-purpose ski/snowshoe may be configured in several ways, including a short ski, a short ski with heel-plate brake, and a fully articulated snowshoe. It may be reconfigured by a combination of reversing the winged frame, inverting or interchanging the bottom surface plug, or adjusting the point of articulation. This provides a highly efficient device for foot-powered transportation over a wide variety of winter landscapes.

CROSS REFERENCE

[0001] This invention claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 60/186,153 filed on Feb. 29, 2000.

BACKGROUND

[0002] The current invention relates generally to equipment forfoot-powered transportation across snow and ice and specifically to acombination ski/snowshoe device that includes a braking system.

[0003] There have been many attempts to provide equipment for snow andice travel and recreation that is both safe and functional as skis andsnowshoes. As a result, there are a large range and variety of skis ofdifferent composition, lengths, and shapes, with a multitude ofdifferent boots, bindings, and even surface preparations available,providing various degrees of safety and functionality.

[0004] For example, conventional short skis cannot be used in powder,since they have insufficient surface area to allow the skier to “float”on the snow surface. In contrast, on snow, powder, and ice, showshoeshave a bottom surface designed to provide appropriate traction.

[0005] It is well recognized that the respective purposes and functionsof snowshoes and skis are different. In particular, snowshoes aredesigned to help a user “grip” the surface being traversed, while skisare designed to allow the user to slide over the surface. Moreover, theshape and length of snowshoes and skis are typically different, withsnowshoes being short and wide to support a user's weight on top of thesurface being traversed, while skis are typically narrow and long toallow for speed of traversal across the surface.

[0006] A report in the December 2000 issue of “Skiing” magazineindicates that torn anterior cruciate ligaments (“ACLs”) represent 20percent of all skiing injuries and that a skier is more likely tocompletely rip his ACL than he was to break his leg in 1973. It alsoquotes John Ettlinger, president of Vermont Ski Safety, as stating thatdesigning a ski that performs well when a skier is skiing properly andprotects him from himself when he's skiing in an unsafe manner isnothing more than a simple engineering problem. He goes on to state thatsuch ski designs would perform like any other ski when the skier waswell-balanced, but if, for example, the skier started to lean too farback, the ski would progressively lose its carving ability and start toskid a turn, thus breaking the sequence of events leading to ACL sprainand allowing the skier to recover his balance.

[0007] With regard to snowshoes, conventional snowshoes are difficult tomaneuver in a transverse direction up or down a steep incline. Aconventional snowshoe will force the foot to roll over and sit evenlywith or tangent to the surface. If the surface is loose powder, somerelief will occur when one side compacts more than the other and thefoot is allowed to sit at a more comfortable angle with the body.However, if the snow surface is crusted over with ice or is packed withmore dense snow, a conventional snowshoe can be very uncomfortable if atransverse path up or down a steep incline is taken. Many times it isnatural to work one's way up or down a steep incline by walking back andforth and cutting one's way up or down the incline. This techniquereduces the effort of each step and allows one to avoid obstacles bygoing around them. A conventional snowshoe can force one to go straightup or down a steep incline. This can lead to fatigue and danger if theincline is so steep that is unsafe.

[0008] Therefore, what is needed are new designs for snowshoes and skisthat fulfill the functions described above.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] In a first embodiment, a multipurpose braking snowshoe/ski, or“brake ski,” consists of a pair of short, ski-shaped devices that areattached to boots, shoes, or other footwear of the user and haveelevated “wings” for providing additional surface area for buoyancy andcontrol. The bottom of the multipurpose snowshoe/ski includes aninterchangeable, hinged foot plate, also referred to as a binding plate,that may have a smooth bottom surface for functioning as a ski, or acorrugated bottom surface for functioning as a snowshoe. When the hingedfoot plate is configured as a ski, it functions as a brake, enabling theuser to lean back, extending and depressing the heel of the plate intothe snow, giving additional friction, thus slowing the ski. This actionwill act to slow the user if even weight is applied to both skis, or toturn the user if more pressure is applied to one ski relative to theother.

[0010] The interchangeable foot plate is attached with a pivot pin thatextends through the body of the multipurpose snowshoe/ski, through thefoot plate, and into the multipurpose snowshoe/ski body on the otherside. There may be several pivot pin positions, allowing the user to setthe degree to which the heel of the plate descends into the snow,controlling the amount of friction and braking applied. A top surface ofthe foot plate is customizable so that an appropriate binding can beattached, allowing the user to select one of the many types of boots andbindings available.

[0011] It will be recognized that the natural position for a skier to gothe fastest downhill is to lean forward. When the skier is leaningforward, the multipurpose snowshoe/ski performs like a normal ski andgenerates no additional drag or braking force. In contrast, the naturalreaction for a skier who encounters the need to slow down suddenly is tolean back. This natural reaction will cause the brake to engage. Theharder the skier leans back, the stronger the brake force will be.

[0012] The first embodiment addresses three distinct considerations inthe field of snowshoe and ski equipment. First, it is a combinationsnowshoe and ski, allowing the user to easily and quickly change thesurface in contact with the snow or ice from “sliding” (ski) to“gripping” (snowshoe). Second, it is of a shape and length appropriateboth to ski and snowshoe such that the user can traverse terrain(specifically, narrow downhill and uphill passages) not easilymaneuvered by traditional skis or snowshoes. And third, it has anautomatic braking system that provides additional safety in preventinganterior cruciate ligament injuries. The embodiment can be easilyconverted from ski to snowshoe and from snowshoe to ski by simplyinterchanging the foot plate comprising the bottom surface of theinvention. This allows the user the maximum flexibility in choosing hisor her route over a variety of uphill and downhill terrain. The processtakes only a few moments to remove the current plate and installing thenew plate.

[0013] In a second embodiment, a fully articulating snowshoe has agently tapered or wedged body across its width and away from the center.This allows the snowshoe to easily roll back and forth up to 30 degreesor so, allowing the foot to take on a more natural posture while stillengaging a transverse lie on a slope. A crampon plate that attaches tothe foot is fully articulating such that the foot has a full range ofmotion to pitch forward or aft and engage teeth under either the toe orthe heel into the surface. Side teeth provide firm engagement so thatthe snowshoe will not slip on transverse surfaces.

[0014] In a third embodiment, a convertible ski shoe combines all thebenefits of the first and second embodiments into a single design. Theconvertible ski shoe is a versatile device that enables a person totravel at the most efficient rate across a wide range of winterlandscape. The convertible ski shoe can be quickly transformed from afast downhill ski into an all terrain snowshoe in seconds. To do so, auser reaches down and partially pulls out two quick release pins oneither side of the ski shoe. A binding plate stays attached to the footwhile a convertible plug is flipped over. The foot is then reversed indirection and the ski is transformed into a snowshoe. The quick releasepins are pushed back into place to lock the binding plate in the newposition. The convertible ski shoe has a ski front end and a snowshoefront end combined into the same body. In snowshoe mode, most of thebody length is portioned behind the foot. This insures that the back ofthe shoe falls and drags against the ground so that the front of thebody is lifted up to make it easier to step forward into soft snow. Inski mode, the front of the body extends out further than the back. Thisconfiguration is thus optimized for control while skiing.

[0015] In ski mode, the convertible plug can be set to provide somecontrolled degree of forward rotation before hitting the stop. This canbe used for an optional glide mode where the heel is released similar tocross-country skis. The toe is allowed to pivot slightly forward toenable a grabber feature or shovel to dig in slightly and give across-country skier a toe hold with which to push off.

[0016] In snowshoe mode, the convertible ski shoe becomes a fullyarticulating snowshoe and a user can walk or run up or down steep slopesat any angle with comfort, while maintaining maximum control and grip inany slope angle. Moreover, if very tight conditions are encountered,such as climbing among snow-covered rocks, crampons can be released andused as separate devices.

[0017] In a fourth embodiment, a dual bridge convertible ski shoe, alsocombines all the benefits of the first and second embodiments into asingle design. The dual bridge convertible ski shoe is also a versatiledevice that enables a person to travel at the most efficient rate acrossa wide range of winter landscape. The dual bridge convertible ski shoecan be quickly transformed from a fast downhill ski into an all terrainsnowshoe. To accomplish this, a user reaches down underneath aconvertible plug and squeezes together two binding plate release springsto release two bridges. Each bridge has two sets of release springs. Onebridge is attached to the forward part of the foot and the other to theaft part of the foot. The binding plate or bridges stay attached to thefoot while the convertible plug is flipped over. The foot is thenreversed in direction and the ski is transformed into a snowshoe. Thedual bridges stay attached to the foot through binding straps or similardevices and fit back into slots on either side of the convertible plug.They snap into place to lock the bridges to the convertible plug.

[0018] The dual bridge convertible ski shoe has a ski front end and asnowshoe front end combined into the same body. In snowshoe mode, mostof the body length is portioned behind the foot to insure that the backof the shoe falls and drags against the ground so that the front of thebody is lifted up to make it easier to step forward into soft snow. Inski mode, the front of the body extends out further than the back. Thisconfiguration provides optimum control while skiing.

[0019] In ski mode, the convertible plug could be set to provide somecontrolled degree of forward rotation before hitting the stop. This canbe used for an optional glide mode where the heel is released similar tocross-country skis. The toe is able to pivot slightly forward to enablea grabber feature or shovel to dig in slightly and give thecross-country skier a toe hold with which to push off.

[0020] In snowshoe mode, the dual bridge convertible ski shoe becomes afully articulating snowshoe, enabling a user to walk or run up or downsteep slopes at any angle with comfort. The user maintains maximumcontrol and grip in any slope angle. Moreover, if very tight conditionsare encountered such as climbing among snow covered rocks, the cramponscan be released and used as separate devices.

[0021] In a fifth embodiment, a smooth bottom convertible ski shoecombines all the benefits of the first, second, and third embodimentsinto a single design. The smooth bottom convertible ski shoe is aversatile device that enables a person to travel at the most efficientrate across a wide range of winter landscape. The smooth bottomconvertible ski shoe can be quickly transformed from a fast downhill skiinto an all terrain snowshoe in seconds. To accomplish thistransformation, a user reaches down and releases binding plate locks. Abinding plate assembly stays attached to the binding and foot as thefoot is lifted up. A convertible plug is attached to the body of thesmooth bottom convertible ski shoe by means of two coaxial pivot pinassemblies. The convertible plug assembly is then flipped over orconverted. The foot is then reversed in direction and reinserted intothe opposite side or snowshoe side of the convertible plug assembly andthe ski is transformed into a snowshoe. The binding plate locks are thensecured.

[0022] Any number of different kinds of standard bindings can beattached to a deck of the binding plate. The preferred type of bindingwould a standard snowboard type, such as the K-2 Clicker step instandard or high back system, although any number of Burton bindingsystems, telemark, cross-country, short ski, such as Solomon Snow Bladeor ski shoe, bindings, or crampons such as Atlas Mountain Tracker couldalso be adapted and mounted. The snowboard bindings would be adapted foruse with the foot mounted fore and aft like a standard ski instead oftransverse as on a snow board. The more compliant boots used for snowboarding would offer a good balance between flexibility and rigidity forcontrol. The snow board bindings can be adjusted to allow the optimumfoot angle for pigeon-toed or bow-legged people to align their ski shoesstraight. The cross-country and snowshoe bindings would be moredifficult to control because of their lack of foot restraint. The shortski bindings are designed for use with regular ski boots, which are veryrigid for comfortable walking. Other types of bindings, includingvarious strap arrangements can be mounted a number of ways through strapbinding holes not detailed.

[0023] A technical advantage achieved with the first embodiment is that,while conventional skis are difficult to maneuver down steep narrowtrails., the multipurpose snowshoe/ski, when in the ski configuration,is a short ski, appropriate to these types of terrain.

[0024] Another technical advantage achieved with the first embodiment isthat, while conventional skis are difficult to maneuver up steep narrowtrails, the multipurpose snowshoe/ski can be easily converted to asnowshoe to be used in these circumstances.

[0025] Yet another technical advantage achieved with the firstembodiment is that it takes advantage of the natural inclination of askier to lean back when he wants to slow down by causing such an actionto trigger the braking mechanism of the embodiment, slowing the skierand allowing him to regain his balance.

[0026] Yet another technical advantage achieved with the firstembodiment is that it provides a more versatile skiing platform toimprove the safety, flexibility, performance, and cost over conventionalski art.

[0027] A technical advantage achieved with the second embodiment isthat, while conventional snowshoes allow the toe to rotate forward anddig in for forward traction, but the heel motion is restricted, thefully articulating snowshoe allows the foot go where it wants tonaturally go, independent of the surface orientation.

[0028] Another technical advantage of the second embodiment is that itprovides more flexibility to traverse a variety of surfaces in a widerange of conditions and provides more comfort to the user with lessfatigue and chance of injury.

[0029] Yet another technical advantage of the second embodiment is thatthe crampon foot piece is also removable so that the user can go placeswhere a snowshoe body would get in the way without a lot of extraequipment for traction.

[0030] A technical advantage achieved with the third embodiment is thatit enables skiing in light powder because the body has enough liftsurface area to keep a skier floating up.

[0031] A further technical advantage achieved with the third embodimentis that it is small, light, inexpensive and compact and facilitatesskiing with speed and confidence while improving safety, even whenskiing down tight narrow trails or glade runs between trees, because thebrake can be used for control and steering without cutting.

[0032] Yet another technical advantage achieved with the thirdembodiment is that it is easier to learn because of the easy instant andautomatic reflex control and braking design.

[0033] A technical advantage of the fourth embodiment is that it enablesskiing in light powder because the body has enough lift surface area tokeep a skier buoyed up.

[0034] Another technical advantage of the fourth embodiment is that itis small, light, and inexpensive and facilitates skiing with speed andconfidence while improving safety when skiing down tight narrow trailsor glade runs between trees, because the brake can be used for controland steering without cutting.

[0035] Yet another technical advantage of the fourth embodiment is thatit is easier to learn because of the easy instant and automatic reflexcontrol and braking design.

[0036] A technical advantage achieved with the fifth embodiment is thatthe smooth bottom convertible ski shoe is quickly transformed from afast down hill ski into an all terrain snowshoe in seconds.

[0037] Another technical advantage achieved with the fifth embodiment isthat any number of different types of bindings and boots can be usedtherewith.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0038]FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of the first embodiment.

[0039]FIG. 1A is another top perspective of the first embodiment.

[0040]FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of the first embodiment.

[0041]FIG. 2A is another bottom perspective view of the firstembodiment.

[0042]FIG. 3 is a top perspective view of the first embodiment with thebrake removed.

[0043]FIG. 3A is another top perspective view of the first embodimentwith the brake removed.

[0044]FIG. 4 is a bottom perspective view of the first embodiment withthe brake removed.

[0045]FIG. 4A is another bottom perspective view of the first embodimentwith the brake removed.

[0046]FIG. 5 is a top perspective view of a brake ski cover of the firstembodiment.

[0047]FIG. 6 is a bottom perspective view of a binding attachment plate,or brake, of the first embodiment.

[0048]FIG. 7 is a side perspective view of the binding attachment plateof FIG. 6.

[0049]FIG. 8 is another perspective view of the binding attachment plateof FIG. 6.

[0050]FIG. 9 is yet another perspective view of the binding attachmentplate of FIG. 6.

[0051]FIG. 10A is a top plan view of the first embodiment.

[0052]FIG. 10B is a side plan view of the first embodiment.

[0053]FIG. 10C is a bottom plan view of the first embodiment.

[0054]FIG. 11A is a sectional view of the first embodiment asillustrated in FIG. 10A along the line A-A.

[0055]FIG. 11B is a sectional view of the first embodiment asillustrated in FIG. 10B along the line B-B.

[0056]FIG. 11C is a front plan view of the first embodiment.

[0057]FIG. 11D is a rear plan view of the first embodiment.

[0058]FIG. 12 is a top perspective view of the second embodiment.

[0059]FIG. 13 is a bottom perspective view of the second embodiment.

[0060]FIG. 13A is another bottom perspective view of the secondembodiment.

[0061]FIG. 14 is a top perspective view of the second embodiment withthe crampon removed.

[0062]FIG. 15 is a bottom perspective view of the second embodiment withthe crampon removed.

[0063]FIG. 16 is a top perspective view of a crampon plate of the secondembodiment.

[0064]FIG. 17 is a bottom perspective view of the crampon plate of thesecond embodiment.

[0065]FIG. 18A is a top plan view of the second embodiment.

[0066]FIG. 18B is a side plan view of the second embodiment.

[0067]FIG. 18C is a rear plan view of the second embodiment.

[0068]FIG. 18D is a front plan view of the second embodiment.

[0069]FIG. 19A is a sectional view of the second embodiment asillustrated in FIG. 18A along the line A-A.

[0070]FIG. 19B is a sectional view of the second embodiment asillustrated in FIG. 18B along the line B-B.

[0071]FIG. 19C is a front plan view of the second embodiment.

[0072]FIG. 19D is a rear plan view of the second embodiment.

[0073]FIG. 20 is a top perspective view of the third embodimentconfigured as a ski.

[0074]FIG. 21 is a bottom perspective view of the third embodimentconfigured as a ski.

[0075]FIG. 21A is another bottom perspective view of the thirdembodiment configured as a ski.

[0076]FIG. 22 is a top perspective view of the third embodimentconfigured as a showshoe.

[0077]FIG. 23 is a bottom perspective view of the third embodimentconfigured as a snowshoe illustrating a convertible plug.

[0078]FIG. 23A is another bottom perspective view of the thirdembodiment configured as a snowshoe illustrating a convertible plug.

[0079]FIG. 24 is a top perspective view of the third embodiment with theconvertible plug removed.

[0080]FIG. 25 is a bottom perspective view of the third embodiment withthe plug removed.

[0081]FIG. 26 is a top perspective of a binding attachment plate of thethird embodiment including the convertible plug.

[0082]FIG. 27 is a bottom perspective view of the binding attachmentplate of the third embodiment.

[0083]FIG. 28 is a bottom perspective view of a portion of theconvertible plug shown in FIG. 26.

[0084]FIG. 29 is another bottom perspective view of a portion of theconvertible plug shown in FIG. 26.

[0085]FIG. 30 illustrates a pivot pin of the third embodiment.

[0086]FIG. 31A is a top plan view of the third embodiment.

[0087]FIG. 31B is a side plan view of the third embodiment.

[0088]FIG. 31C is a rear plan view of the third embodiment.

[0089]FIG. 31D is a front plan view of the third embodiment.

[0090]FIG. 31E is a bottom plan view of the third embodiment.

[0091]FIG. 32A is a sectional view of the third embodiment asillustrated in FIG. 31A along the line A-A.

[0092]FIG. 32B is a sectional view of the third embodiment asillustrated in FIG. 31B along the line B-B.

[0093]FIG. 32C is a front plan view of the third embodiment.

[0094]FIG. 32D is a rear plan view of the third embodiment.

[0095]FIG. 33 is a top perspective view of the fourth embodimentconfigured as a ski.

[0096]FIG. 34 is a bottom perspective view of the fourth embodimentconfigured as a ski.

[0097]FIG. 34A is another bottom perspective view of the fourthembodiment configured as a ski.

[0098]FIG. 35 is top perspective view of the fourth embodimentconfigured as a showshoe.

[0099]FIG. 36 is a bottom perspective view of the fourth embodimentconfigured as a showshoe illustrating a plug and bridge thereof.

[0100]FIG. 36A is another bottom perspective view of the fourthembodiment configured as a showshoe illustrating a plug and bridgethereof.

[0101]FIG. 37 is a top perspective view of the fourth embodiment withthe plug and bridge removed.

[0102]FIG. 37A is another top perspective view of the fourth embodimentwith the plug and bridge removed.

[0103]FIG. 38 is a bottom perspective view of the fourth embodiment withthe plug and bridge removed.

[0104]FIG. 38A is another bottom perspective view of the fourthembodiment with the plug and bridge removed.

[0105]FIG. 38B is yet another bottom perspective view of the fourthembodiment with the plug and bridge removed.

[0106]FIG. 39 is a top perspective view of a binding attachment plate,or bridge, section of the fourth embodiment.

[0107]FIG. 39A is another top perspective view of a binding attachmentplate, or bridge, section of the fourth embodiment.

[0108]FIG. 40 is a bottom perspective view of a binding attachmentplate, or bridge, section of the fourth embodiment.

[0109]FIG. 40A is another bottom perspective view of a bindingattachment plate, or bridge, section of the fourth embodiment.

[0110]FIG. 41 is a top perspective view of a convertible plug section ofthe fourth embodiment.

[0111]FIG. 41A is another top perspective view of a convertible plugsection of the fourth embodiment.

[0112]FIG. 42 is bottom perspective view of a convertible plug sectionof the fourth embodiment.

[0113]FIG. 42A is another bottom perspective view of a convertible plugsection of the fourth embodiment.

[0114]FIG. 43 illustrates a pivot pin of the fourth embodiment.

[0115]FIG. 43A is another illustration of the pivot pin of the fourthembodiment.

[0116]FIG. 44A is a top plan view of the fourth embodiment.

[0117]FIG. 44B is a side plan view of the fourth embodiment.

[0118]FIG. 44C is a bottom plan view of the fourth embodiment.

[0119]FIG. 45A is a sectional view of the fourth embodiment asillustrated in FIG. 44B along the line A-A.

[0120]FIG. 45B is a sectional view of the fourth embodiment asillustrated in FIG. 44A along the line B-B.

[0121]FIG. 45C is a front plan view of the fourth embodiment.

[0122]FIG. 45D is a rear plan view of the fourth embodiment.

[0123]FIG. 46 is a top perspective view of the fifth embodimentconfigured as a ski.

[0124]FIG. 46A is another top perspective view of the fifth embodimentconfigured as a ski.

[0125]FIG. 47 is a bottom perspective view of the fifth embodimentconfigured as a ski.

[0126]FIG. 47A is another bottom perspective view of the fifthembodiment configured as a ski.

[0127]FIG. 48 is a side perspective view of the fifth embodimentconfigured as a ski.

[0128]FIG. 49 is an exploded view of the fifth embodiment configured asa ski.

[0129]FIG. 49A is another exploded view of the fifth embodimentconfigured as a ski.

[0130]FIG. 49B is another exploded view of the fifth embodimentconfigured as a ski.

[0131]FIG. 50A is a top plan view of the fifth embodiment configured asa ski.

[0132]FIG. 50B is a side plan view of the fifth embodiment configured asa ski.

[0133]FIG. 50C is a bottom plan view of the fifth embodiment configuredas a ski.

[0134]FIG. 50D is a front plan view of the fifth embodiment configuredas a ski.

[0135]FIG. 50E is a rear plan view of the fifth embodiment configured asa ski.

[0136]FIG. 51 is a sectional view of the fifth embodiment as illustratedin FIG. 50A along the line A-A.

[0137]FIG. 52 is a top perspective view of the fifth embodimentconfigured as a showshoe.

[0138]FIG. 53 is a bottom perspective view of the fifth embodimentconfigured as a snowshoe.

[0139]FIG. 53A is another bottom perspective view of the fifthembodiment configured as a snowshoe.

[0140]FIG. 54A is a side perspective view of the fifth embodimentconfigured as a snowshoe illustrating no rotation of a convertible plugthereof.

[0141]FIG. 54B is a side perspective view of the fifth embodimentconfigured as a snowshoe illustrating maximum rotation of a convertibleplug thereof.

[0142]FIGS. 55A and 55B respectively illustrate side perspective viewsof the fifth embodiment configured as a snowshoe in climbing mode anddescending mode.

[0143]FIG. 56 is a top perspective view of the fifth embodimentconfigured as a snowshoe illustrating a maximum heel down mode.

[0144]FIG. 57 is a top perspective view of the fifth embodiment in glidemode illustrating no rotation of the convertible plug thereof.

[0145]FIGS. 58A and 58B respectively illustrate side perspective viewsof the fifth embodiment in glide mode illustrating zero and maximumrotation of the convertible plug.

[0146]FIG. 59 is a top perspective view of a body portion of the fifthembodiment.

[0147]FIG. 59A is another top perspective view of a body portion of thefifth embodiment.

[0148]FIG. 60 is a bottom perspective view of the body portion of thefifth embodiment.

[0149]FIG. 61A is a top plan view of a body assembly of the fifthembodiment.

[0150]FIG. 61B is a side plan view of the body assembly of the fifthembodiment.

[0151]FIG. 61C is a bottom plan view of the body assembly of the fifthembodiment.

[0152]FIG. 61D is a front plan view of the body assembly of the fifthembodiment.

[0153]FIG. 61E is a rear plan view of the body assembly of the fifthembodiment.

[0154]FIG. 62A is a sectional view of the body assembly of the fifthembodiment as illustrated in FIG. 61A along the line B-B.

[0155]FIG. 62B is a sectional view of the body assembly of the fifthembodiment as illustrated in FIG. 61B along the line A-A.

[0156] FIGS. 63A-63C are various sectional views of the body assembly ofthe fifth embodiment as illustrated in FIG. 61A along lines C-C, D-D,and E-E, respectively.

[0157]FIG. 64 illustrates various sectional views of the body assemblyof the fifth embodiment as illustrated in FIG. 61B along lines F-F, G-G,H-H, J-J, K-K, L-L, and M-M.

[0158]FIG. 65 illustrates a plug rotation limiter clip of the fifthembodiment.

[0159]FIG. 66 is a top perspective view of a binding attachment plateassembly of the fifth embodiment.

[0160]FIG. 67 is a bottom perspective view of the binding attachmentplate assembly of the fifth embodiment.

[0161]FIG. 68 is an exploded view of the binding attachment plateassembly of the fifth embodiment.

[0162] FIGS. 69A-69F respectively illustrate top, side, bottom, left,and right end plan views of a convertible plug assembly of the fifthembodiment.

[0163] FIGS. 70A-70E respectively illustrate sectional views of theconvertible plug assembly of the fifth embodiment as shown in FIG. 69Aalong the lines A-A, B-B, C-C, D-D, and E-E.

[0164] FIGS. 71A-71C respectively illustrate sectional views of theconvertible plug assembly of the fifth embodiment as shown in FIG. 69Balong the lines O-O, F-F, and L-L.

[0165]FIG. 72 illustrates various detailed views of a lock plug of thefifth embodiment.

[0166]FIG. 73 illustrates various detailed views of a pivot pin doublerof the fifth embodiment.

[0167]FIGS. 74 and 75 are top perspective views of a convertible plugassembly of the fifth embodiment.

[0168]FIG. 76 is a bottom perspective view of the convertible plugassembly of the fifth embodiment.

[0169]FIG. 77 illustrates various views of a pivot pin assembly of thefifth embodiment.

[0170]FIG. 78 is an isometric view of the pivot pin assembly of thefifth embodiment.

[0171]FIG. 79 illustrate various views of a plug rotation limiter pin ofthe fifth embodiment.

[0172] FIGS. 80A-80E illustrate various views of a convertible plug ofthe fifth embodiment.

[0173] FIGS. 81A-81B illustrate various views of a convertible plug ofthe fifth embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0174] The present invention can be described with several examplesgiven below. It is understood, however, that the examples below are notnecessarily limitations to the present invention, but are used todescribe typical embodiments of operation.

[0175] First Embodiment—Brake Ski

[0176]FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a brake ski 10 of the firstembodiment of the present invention, which is adapted for wearing oneither the right foot or left foot. It is to be understood that brakeski 10 is but one of a pair of the brake skis of the first embodiment,the other of that same pair being an appropriate mirror image of thebrake ski 10.

[0177] Referring now to FIGS. 1, 1A, 2, 2A, 3, and 3A, it can be seenthat the brake ski 10 includes a body 11 that, while unitary inconstruction, may be thought of as being comprised of five portions,including a center portion 11 a, a forward portion 11 b, an aft portion11 c, a nose portion 11 d, and a tail portion 11 e. As best seen in FIG.3, the center portion 11 a extends along the cutout region. Outer beams12 are contained in the narrow center portion 11 a around a brakeaperture 14. The outer beams 12 are proportioned to transition bending,shear, and twist loads from the forward portion 11 b, a constant sectionforward of the brake aperture, to the aft portion 11 c, a constantsection aft of the brake aperture. As best shown in FIG. 3, the noseportion 11 d forms the transition to a forwardmost point 16, and iscurved upward similar to existing ski designs. The nose portion 11 dinsures that the body 11 stays on top of the snow surface and ridessmoothly over small obstacles or choppy ice and snow. The tail portion11 e, forms the transition to a rearwardmost point 18. Although the tailportion 11 e, as shown in FIG. 3, is very similar to the nose portion 11e, it could be truncated without an upward arch. The shape of thevarious portions can be changed and styled in various ways withoutchanging or sacrificing the basic function of the brake ski 10.

[0178] As shown in FIGS. 3, 4, and 4A, a primary snow contact surface 20of the brake ski body 11 makes contact with a surface over which awearer is traversing. In soft snow or powder, a secondary snow contactsurface, or “wings,” 24 will also make contact with the snow surface.The overall brake ski body 11 can be proportioned/sized to havesufficient area to keep skiers of various weights floating up in softsnow or deep powder. The combination of primary 20 and secondary snowcontact surfaces 24 will allow a short ski design, as depicted in FIG.1, to act similarly to a long ski. Current narrow short ski designs arenot functional in deep powder conditions because of a lack of sufficientlift.

[0179] Referring now to FIGS. 6-9, 10A-10C, and 11A-11D, as bestillustrated in FIGS. 11A-11D, the brake ski body 11 is connected to thebinding attachment plate or brake 26 with a pivot pin 28. Rolling motionis imparted by the foot through the pivot pin 28 and into the brake skibody 11. This rolling motion causes either of two inner edges 30 (FIG.4) to dig into the snow for directional control similar to existingshort or long ski designs. A roll angle is sufficient to allow thisrolling motion to occur without interference from the wings 24. In caseof extreme rolling due to a fall or extreme slopes, an outside edge 34can cause the inner edge 30 to lift off the snow surface. The inneredges 30 are simply sharp corners of the parent material of the brakeski body 11. Molded in metal inserts could be used to improve thecutting action of the edges if more control is desired especially onice. However, if extreme roll conditions are experienced and the outsideedges cause the inner edges to pry off of the surface, a loss of controlcould result. If the two edges are similar in construction and geometry,then they will both perform similarly, and a surprise loss of controlwill not be experienced. Therefore, it is recommended that both inner 30and outer edges 34 have inserts or have similar geometry and material.The outer edges 34 as depicted are not optimum and have a large gentleradius and an edge that is not straight and parallel to the inner edges30.

[0180] The brake ski body 11 can be constructed a number of ways, thepreferred one being a two piece hollow design comprising an upper andlower shell preferably constructed from a reinforced injection moldedplastic. Injection molded parts minimize the touch labor required to setup each part. The reinforcement is preferably a longer fiber variety formaximum strength, stiffness, and damage tolerance at minimal weight. Thetwo halves preferably have a snap fit design where plastic snap elementspermanently lock the two halves together. Once the two halves locktogether, they act as an integral closed cell box. Using shear bosseswould insure that the two halves would act as a single torque box. Thismanufacturing method would also be consistent with the other parts.Local stiffeners and internal ribs may be used to internally stiffen theskins of the shells. Local areas of higher stress could be strengthenedby an increase in thickness. An alternate method to assemble the halveswould be to secure them together with fasteners or screws spacedperiodically around the perimeter.

[0181] The body 11 could also alternately be constructed as describedabove, except the snap feature(s) could be replaced with a bond orwelding. The body 11 could also alternately be constructed as a onepiece foam filled or hollow part having a skin material, such asepoxy-bonded fiberglass, carbon or a metallic material, such asaluminum, disposed thereover. The skin material could form a bondedassembly with an internal foam core and could be a wet lay up over afoam core to save weight. An alternate means of manufacture wouldinvolve some form of resin transfer molding or vacuum assist resintransfer molding of resin into a closed cavity mold with dry preformbroad goods over an internal mandrel. A hollow design could also beproduced using a rotomolding process.

[0182] As best shown in FIGS. 3 and 6, a toe surface 37 of the brake skibody 11 is shaped to interfere and contact with a corresponding toesurface 38 on the brake 26. This contact will prevent a toe portion 26 bof the brake 26 from digging into the snow surface as the skier leansforward and will prevent a sudden deceleration or loss of control. Asshown in FIGS. 4 and 9, a heel surface 40 of the brake ski body 11 isdesigned not to interfere with a corresponding heel surface 42 of thebrake 26. If the heel surfaces 40 and 42 are radiused with the center ata pivot axis, a tight fit will insure that the gap is minimized andforeign objects can not easily get wedged or trapped.

[0183] As shown in FIGS. 3, 8, and 11A-11D, the brake 26 is attached tothe brake ski body 11 by means of a pivot pin 28. The pivot pin 28 ismounted along a transverse “Y” axis through pivot holes 46 in each ofthe two outer beams 12 of the brake ski body 11 and corresponding pivotholes 48 contained in the brake 26. A pin height is set to keep thepivot pin 28 clear of the rolling clearance and up into the wings 24without any additional lugs or other features. The pivot pin 28 is shownas comprising a single piece with a head formed at installation on theshank. The type and details for the pivot pin could vary considerably.The pivot pin 28 could be fixed as shown or removable. The brake 26 isfree to rotate about the pivot axis 44. Although the pivot axis isillustrated as being roughly at the middle of the brake 26, the axiscould be shifted either forward or aft to make the braking actionstronger or weaker.

[0184] Referring now to FIGS. 6-8, it can be seen that the bindingattachment plate or brake 26, while unitary in construction, may bethought of as being comprised of three portions, including, a centerportion 26 a, the toe portion 26 b, and a heel portion 26 c. As bestshown in FIG. 9, the center portion 26 a extends along the constantsection region. The toe portion extends the tangency to a toe surface56, and the heel portion 26 b extends from the opposite tangency to theheel surface 58. In operation, when a skier wants to slow down or stop,weight is simply shifted to the heel portion 26 b of the brake. The heelportion 26 b then will push down into the surface of the snow and causethe snow to displace downward and to the side. The energy required todisplace the snow will cause the skier to slow down and finally stop.

[0185] As shown in FIGS. 6-9, the brake 26 also has a primary snowcontact surface 60 that makes contact with the surface over which thewearer is traversing. In soft snow or powder, a secondary snow contactsurface, or “wings,” 62 will also make contact with the snow surface asdescribed for the brake ski body 11 above. When a skier wants to skiwithout braking action or restraint, weight is shifted forward, and thebrake 26 rotates into a position in which the primary and secondary snowcontact surfaces 60, 62 of the brake align themselves with the primaryand secondary surfaces snow contact surfaces 20, 24, of the body 11. Inthis position, the brake ski 10 offers very little resistance tosliding. The width of the brake 26 depicted here as narrower than thefoot. There is no need to make the brake 26 wider than the foot sinceonly a small engagement of the heel portion 26 c will allow sufficientbraking force. This should reduce the overall size and width of thebrake ski 10.

[0186] Referring to FIG. 8, the brake 26 can be constructed a number ofways, the preferred one being a one piece injection molding made from areinforced plastic, as injection molded parts minimize the touch laborrequired to set up each part. The reinforcement material could be alonger fiber variety for maximum strength, stiffness, and damagetolerance at minimal weight. Local stiffeners and ribs 64 would be usedto stiffen the skins of an outer shell 66. The ribs 64 form acrisscrossed diagonal pattern to maximize the torsional stiffness alongthe longitudinal “X” axis of the brake. Binding attach bosses 68 arelocated to provide a built up area in which to mount a standard skibinding, a cross-country or telemarking binding. These bindings would beattached with fasteners at binding attachment holes 70 disposed throughan outer flange 71.

[0187] To prevent moisture from accumulating in the cavities of thebrake 26 and adding unnecessary weight to the device, an optional cover72, as illustrated in FIGS. 5, 11A, and 11B, can be sandwiched betweenthe binding and the brake to seal off the inner cavities of the brake.The cover 72 has an edge 72 a that matches the brake 26 and holes 72 bthat corresponded to the binding attach holes 70. Alternately, a stiffclosed foam insert material (not shown) could be molded or cut to fitsnugly into the open cavities between the ribs and the shell of thebrake to provide a light weight inexpensive seal. The foam insert couldbe glued in place to keep it secure.

[0188] In an alternate brake ski arrangement, the brake 26 spans atraditionally-shaped center ski portion. The brake surface is divided upinto two surfaces on each side of the center ski portion and there is abridge like structure that spans the center ski portion and joinstogether the two brake surfaces. A pivot pin connects the center portionto the brake to allow it to rotate backwards for braking. A stopprevents excessive forward rotation. The binding is attached to thebridge portion of the brake

[0189] Second Embodiment—Fully Articulating Snowshoe

[0190]FIG. 12 is a top perspective view of a fully articulating snowshoe200 of the second embodiment of the present invention, which is adaptedfor wearing on either the right foot or left foot. It is to beunderstood that the fully articulating snowshoe 200 is but one of a pairof the fully articulating snowshoes of the second embodiment, the otherof that same pair being an appropriate mirror image of fullyarticulating snowshoe 200.

[0191] Referring now to FIGS. 13, 13A, 14, and 15, as best shown in FIG.14, it can be seen that a body 202 of the fully articulating snowshoe200, while unitary in construction, may be thought of as being comprisedof five portions, including, a center portion 202 a, a forward portion202 b, an aft portion 202 c, a nose portion 202 d, and a tail portion202 e. The center portion 202 a extends along a cutout region. Outerbeams 204 are contained in the narrow center portion 202 a around acrampon aperture 206. The outer beams 204 are proportioned to transitionthe bending, shear and twist loads from the forward portion 202 b thatextends along the essentially constant region as shown in FIG. 15, tothe aft portion 202 c, that extends along the essentially constantregion also shown in FIG. 15. The nose portion 202 d, which that formsthe transition to a forwardmost snowshoe point 208, is curved upward asbest-shown in FIG. 14 and is styled with an optional bear claw arch 210pattern. The tail portion 202 e, which transitions as shown in FIG. 14to a rearwardmost point 212, is curved upward. The shape of the variousportions can be changed and styled in various ways without changing orsacrificing the basic function of the fully articulating snowshoe 200.

[0192] As shown in FIG. 15, a primary snow contact surface 214 of thebody 202 makes contact with a surface over which the wearer istraversing. In soft snow or powder, a secondary snow contact surface or“wings” 218 will also make contact with the traversal surface. Theoverall body 202 can be proportioned to have sufficient area to preventsinking in snowshoe mode. Since the secondary snow contact surface 218is offset from the primary snow contact surface 214, both surfaces canbe nearly flat and parallel with respect to the ground plane whileallowing the fully articulating snowshoe to freely roll form side toside. In snowshoe mode, the primary snow contact surface 214 will sinkinto soft snow first. The secondary snow contact surface 218 willprovide enough extra support to keep the user from sinking. Thesecondary snow contact surface 218 is almost parallel with the groundand will not tend to wedge into the snow as a result.

[0193] Referring now to FIGS. 16, 17, 18A-18D, and 19A-19C, the body 202is connected to a binding attachment plate, or “crampon plate,” 224 witha pivot pin 226. Rolling motion is imparted by the foot through thepivot pin 226 and into the body 202. A roll angle is sufficient to allowthis rolling motion to occur without interference from the wings 218.

[0194] The body 202 can be constructed a number of ways, the preferredone being a two piece hollow design comprising an upper and lower shellpreferably constructed from a reinforced injection molded plastic.Injection molded parts minimize the touch labor required to set up eachpart. The reinforcement is preferably a longer fiber variety for maximumstrength, stiffness, and damage tolerance at minimal weight. The twohalves preferably have a snap fit design where plastic snap elementspermanently lock the two halves together. Once the two halves locktogether, they act as an integral closed cell box. Using shear bosseswould insure that the two halves would act as a single torque box. Thismanufacturing method would also be consistent with the other parts.Local stiffeners and internal ribs may be used to internally stiffen theskins of the shells. Local areas of higher stress could be strengthenedby an increase in thickness. An alternate method to assemble the halveswould be to secure them together with fasteners or screws spacedperiodically around the perimeter.

[0195] The body 202 could also alternately be constructed as describedabove, except the snap feature(s) could be replaced with a bond orwelding. The body 202 could also alternately be constructed as a onepiece foam filled or hollow part having a skin material, such asepoxy-bonded fiberglass, carbon or a metallic material, such asaluminum, disposed thereover. The skin material could form a bondedassembly with an internal foam core and could be a wet lay up over afoam core to save weight. An alternate means of manufacture wouldinvolve some form of resin transfer molding or vacuum assist resintransfer molding of resin into a closed cavity mold with dry preformbroad goods over an internal mandrel. A hollow design could also beproduced using a rotomolding process.

[0196] As best shown in FIGS. 14, 16, and 17, a toe surface 230 and aheel surface 232 of the fully articulating snowshoe body 202 are shapedso as not to interfere and contact with corresponding end surfaces 234on the crampon plate 224. This will ensure unrestrained fullyarticulating toe and heel engagement in snowshoe mode. The toe surface230 and the heel surface 232 of the body 202 and the corresponding endsurfaces 234 of a convertible plug are radiused with the center at apivot axis, a tight fit will insure that the gap is minimized andforeign objects can not easily get wedged or trapped.

[0197] As best shown in FIGS. 18A-18D and 19A-19C, the crampon plate 224is attached to the body 202 by means of one pivot pin 226. As shown inFIG. 17, the pivot pin 226 is protected from damage by capturing itinternally inside a pivot hole rib 240. The pivot hole 242 is locatedinside the pivot hole rib 240 that has been widened to accept it. Thecrampon plate 224 is free to rotate about the pivot axis. The pin heightis set to keep the pivot pin 226 clear of the ground plane when the body202 is rolled to either side for walking transverse along inclines insnowshoe mode. As best shown in FIGS. 15-17, the pivot pin 226 ismounted along a transverse “Y” axis through pivot holes 246 in each ofthe two outer beams 204 of the body 202 and corresponding pivot holes242 in the crampon plate 224. The pivot pin 226 engages through lugs 250that hang down from the outer beams 204 of the body 202.

[0198] The pivot pin 226 is detailed as a quick release pin, althoughmany other types of shear pins would work in this application. A simplepivot pin similar to the one shown for the brake ski 10 would work. Or asimple spring clip (not shown) could be slipped through a small holetransverse to the longitudinal axis of the pivot pin or a self lockingwing nut could be used to make a simple releasable pin. The pivot axisis located roughly at the middle of the convertible plug. A singleremovable pivot pin could be placed in any number of multiple pivot holepositions (not shown), located forward and aft of each other along thelongitudinal axis of the ski shoe, to customize the braking or grippingresponse. This optional design where there are multiple positions for asingle removable pivot pin that passes through the entire convertibleplug would be the best arrangement for an initial prototype toinvestigate overall performance of snowshoe geometric relationships.

[0199] The configuration of the pivot pin 226 is the same as thatdescribed with reference to FIG. 43A below.

[0200] Referring now to FIGS. 16, 17, and 13A, it can be seen that thecrampon plate 224, while unitary in construction, may be thought of ascomprising three portions, including a center portion 224 a, a toeportion 224 b, and a heel portion 224 c. As best seen in FIG. 14, thecenter portion 224 a extends along the region of constant width. The toeand heel portions 224 b and 224 c extend along the end transition radiusto an end surface 234. In snowshoe mode, weight is simply shifted toeither the toe portion 224 b or heel portion 224 c to cause theconvertible plug to rotate and engage teeth 268 for gripping andtraction. The width of the crampon plate 224 is wider than the foot toallow a full range of motion of the foot.

[0201] The crampon plate 224 can be constructed a number of ways, thepreferred one being a one piece injection molding made from a reinforcedplastic, as injection molded parts minimize the touch labor required toset up each part. The reinforcement material could be a longer fibervariety for maximum strength, stiffness, and damage tolerance at minimalweight. As shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, longitudinal ribs 270 and lateralribs 272 can be used to stiffen skins of a deck 274. Optional bindingattach bosses and binding attach holes are not shown, but could bedetailed in the deck 274 to receive standard snowboard style bindings.The snowboard style bindings are highly recommended because of theirexcellent support of the foot and ankle. Other types of bindings,including various strap arrangements can be mounted a number of waysthrough either forward strap binding holes (not shown). The deck 274 andouter flange 264 of the binding attachment plate 224 can support anynumber and arrangements of strap holes or additional flanges or otherfeatures that would be molded into or would extend above the surface ofthe deck 274. Various other types of telemark, cross-country, snowshoe,or Rottefella bindings can be mounted to standard mounting holes andinserts located on the surface of the deck 274. An optional non-skidsurface 278 feature is shown on the deck surface to keep the foot fromsliding around.

[0202] The binding attachment plate 224 has an outer flange 264 withteeth 269 formed on the edge. These teeth 268 provide traction andgripping. Although the teeth 268 are best shown in FIG. 17 as integralwith the rest of the convertible plug material, an optional metal orother material insert could be used in an injected molded part to makethe teeth edges more durable and effective. For cost considerations,however, the integral material approach has merit.

[0203] To prevent snow and ice from accumulating in the cavities of theunderside of the binding attachment plate 224 and adding unnecessaryweight to the device, an optional stiff closed foam insert material (notshown) could be molded or cut to fit snugly into the open cavitiesbetween the ribs and the shell of the convertible plug 236 or thebinding attachment plate 224 to provide a lightweight inexpensive seal.The foam insert could be glued in place to keep it secure. The foaminsert would naturally shed ice buildup. The ice would crack and shedoff as the foam deflects and springs back into original position.

[0204] Third Embodiment—Convertible Ski Shoe

[0205] Referring to FIG. 20, there is shown a convertible ski shoe 300of the third embodiment of the present invention, which is adapted forwearing on either the right foot or left foot. It is to be understoodthat the convertible ski shoe 300 is but one of a pair of theconvertible ski shoes of the third embodiment, the other of that samepair being a left/right mirror image of the convertible ski shoe 300. Aswill be described, FIGS. 20, 21, and 21A show the convertible ski shoe300 in a ski mode configuration. FIGS. 22, 23, and 23A show theconvertible ski shoe 300 in snowshoe mode.

[0206] As best shown in FIGS. 24 and 25, a body 302 of the convertibleski shoe 300, while unitary in construction, may be thought of as beingcomprised of five portions, including a center portion 302 a, a snowshoemode forward portion 302 b, a ski mode forward portion 302 c, thesnowshoe mode nose portion 302 d, and a ski mode nose portion 302 e. Asbest seen in FIG. 24, outer beams 304 are contained in the narrow centerportion 302 a around an aperture 306. The outer beams 304 areproportioned to transition the bending, shear and twist loads from thesnowshoe mode forward portion 302 c to the ski mode forward portion 302c. The snowshoe mode nose portion 302 d that forms the transition to aforwardmost snowshoe point 308, is curved upward as best-shown in FIG.24 and is styled with an optional bear claw arch 310 pattern. The skimode nose portion 302 e that transitions as shown in FIG. 24 to aforwardmost ski point 312, is curved upward and insures that the body302 stays on top of the snow surface and rides smoothly over smallobstacles or choppy ice and snow. The shape of the various portions canbe changed and styled in various ways without changing or sacrificingthe basic function of the convertible ski shoe 300.

[0207] The convertible ski shoe 300 has two primary modes of operation.FIG. 20 shows the convertible ski shoe 300 assembled in a ski mode. FIG.22 shows the same parts rearranged and reconfigured in a snowshoe mode.

[0208] Referring to FIG. 25, a primary snow contact surface 314 of thebody 302 makes contact with a surface over which the wearer istraversing. In soft snow or powder, a secondary snow contact surface or“wings” 318 will also make contact with the snow surface. The overallbody 302 can be proportioned to have sufficient area to keep the devicefloating up in soft snow or deep powder while in ski mode or providingsufficient area to prevent sinking in snowshoe mode. The combination ofprimary 314 and secondary snow contact surfaces 318 will allow a shortski design, as depicted here, to act similarly to a long ski. Currentnarrow short ski designs are not functional in deep powder conditionsbecause of a lack of sufficient lift surface area.

[0209] Since the secondary snow contact surface 318 is offset from theprimary snow contact surface 314, both surfaces can be nearly flat andparallel with respect to a ground plane 316 while allowing theconvertible ski shoe to freely roll form side to side. In snowshoe mode,the primary snow contact surface 314 will sink into soft snow first. Thesecondary snow contact surface 318 will provide enough extra support tokeep the user from sinking. The secondary snow contact surface 318 isalmost parallel with the ground and will not tend to wedge into the snowas a result. This geometry also works to prevent wedging and lifting theskier in ski mode.

[0210] Referring to FIGS. 20, 22, 28, 29, 31A-31D, and 32A-32D, the body302 is connected to a convertible plug 324 with two coaxial pivot pins326. The pivot pins 326 also connect a binding attachment plate 328 tothe convertible plug 324. Rolling motion is imparted by the foot throughthe pivot pins 326 and into the body 302. This rolling motion causeseither of two inner edges 330 to dig into the snow for directionalcontrol similar to existing short or long ski designs. A roll angle issufficient to allow this rolling motion to occur without interferencefrom the wings 318. In case of extreme rolling due to a fall or extremeslopes, one of two outside edges 334 can cause the inner edge to liftoff the snow surface. The inner edges 330 are simply sharp corners ofthe parent material of the brake ski body 202. Molded in metal insertscould be used to improve the cutting action of the edges if more controlis desired especially on ice. However, if extreme roll conditions areexperienced and the outside edges cause the inner edges to pry off ofthe surface, a loss of control could result. If the two edges aresimilar in construction and geometry, then they will both performsimilarly, and a surprise loss of control will not be experienced.Therefore, it is recommended that both inner 330 and outer edges 334have optional inserts or have similar geometry and material. The outeredges 334 as depicted are not optimum and have a large gentle radius andan edge that is not straight and parallel to the inner edges 330.

[0211] The body 302 can be constructed a number of ways, the preferredone being a two piece hollow design comprising an upper and lower shellpreferably constructed from a reinforced injection molded plastic.Injection molded parts minimize the touch labor required to set up eachpart. The reinforcement is preferably a longer fiber variety for maximumstrength, stiffness, and damage tolerance at minimal weight. The twohalves preferably have a snap fit design where plastic snap elementspermanently lock the two halves together. Once the two halves locktogether, they act as an integral closed cell box. Using shear bosseswould insure that the two halves would act as a single torque box. Thismanufacturing method would also be consistent with the other parts.Local stiffeners and internal ribs may be used to internally stiffen theskins of the shells. Local areas of higher stress could be strengthenedby an increase in thickness. An alternate method to assemble the halveswould be to secure them together with fasteners or screws spacedperiodically around the perimeter.

[0212] The body 302 could also alternately be constructed as describedabove, except the snap feature(s) could be replaced with a bond orwelding. The body 302 could also alternately be constructed as a onepiece foam filled or hollow part having a skin material, such asepoxy-bonded fiberglass, carbon or a metallic material, such asaluminum, disposed thereover. The skin material could form a bondedassembly with an internal foam core and could be a wet lay up over afoam core to save weight. An alternate means of manufacture wouldinvolve some form of resin transfer molding or vacuum assist resintransfer molding of resin into a closed cavity mold with dry preformbroad goods over an internal mandrel. A hollow design could also beproduced using a rotomolding process.

[0213] Referring to FIGS. 24, 25, 28, and 29, a ski mode toe surface 336of the body 302 and a snowshoe mode toe surface 338 are shaped not tointerfere and contact with corresponding end surfaces 340 of theconvertible plug 324. A stop located on the convertible plug 324 willcontact the body 202 only in ski mode. This contact will prevent a toeend portion 324 b of the convertible plug 324 from digging into the snowsurface as the skier leans forward and will prevent a suddendeceleration or loss of control. In snowshoe mode the convertible plugis flipped over and the stop will pass unrestricted through a stop slot344 in the body 302. This will insure unrestrained fully articulatingtoe and heel engagement in snowshoe mode. If the ski mode toe surface336 and the snowshoe mode toe surface 338 of the body 202 and the withtheir corresponding end surfaces 340 of the convertible plug 324 areradiused with the center at a pivot axis, a tight fit will insure thatthe gap is minimized and foreign objects can not easily get wedged ortrapped.

[0214] As illustrated in FIGS. 31A-31D and 32A-32D, the convertible plug324 is attached to the body 302 by means of the two coaxial pivot pins326. The pivot pins 326 are mounted along a transverse “Y” axis throughpivot holes 348 (FIGS. 24, 25) in each of the two outer beams 304 of thebody 302 and corresponding pivot holes 350 (FIGS. 28, 29) in theconvertible plug 324. As shown in FIG. 29, each pivot pin 326 engagesthrough two lugs, an outer lug 352 and an inner lug 354. The pivot pin326 can slide partially out of the convertible plug 324 by backing outof the inner lug 354 while remaining engaged in the outer lug 352. Whenthe pivot pin 326 is partially released, it also clears a lug hole 356(FIGS. 28, 29) and releases a binding plate release lug 358 (FIG. 27)and the binding attachment plate 328. The convertible plug 324 can nowbe flipped over to change modes. The binding attachment plate 328 isattached or bound to the foot and remains attached to the foot during aconversion to ski mode from snowshoe mode or vice-versa. The foot isrotated so that the toe points to the opposite end of the ski shoe body302. Then the binding plate release lugs 358 are inserted back throughthe lug holes 356 on the reversed side of the convertible plug 324. Thetwo pivot pins 326 are then pushed back into full engagement and thebinding attachment plate 328 is again secured to the convertible plug324.

[0215] Referring to FIG. 30, the pivot pin 326 is detailed as a quickrelease pin, although many other types of shear pins would work in thisapplication. A simple pivot pin similar to the one shown for the brakeski 300 would work if one end were modified to make it removable. Asimple spring clip (not shown) could be slipped through a small holetransverse to the longitudinal axis of the pivot pin or a self lockingwing nut could be used. If a one piece removable pin were used, moretime and effort would be required to realign the convertible plug 324after it is flipped and then reattached to the binding attachment plate328. A single removable pivot pin could be placed in any number ofmultiple pivot hole positions (not shown) located forward and aft ofeach other along the longitudinal axis of the ski shoe to customize thebraking or gripping response. This optional design where there aremultiple positions for a single removable pivot pin that passes throughthe entire convertible plug 324 would be the best arrangement for aninitial prototype to investigate overall performance of ski mode andsnowshoe mode geometric relationships.

[0216] The convertible plug 324 is free to rotate about the pivot axis.A pin height is set to keep the pivot pin 326 clear of the ground planewhen the body 302 is rolled to either side for cutting in ski mode orwalking transverse along inclines in snowshoe mode. The pivot pin issupported by lugs 362 that hang down from the outer beams 304 on thebody 302. The pivot is shown roughly at the middle of the convertibleplug 324, so that the convertible plug will rotate and have equalclearance between the end surface 340 and the ski mode toe surface 336and the snowshoe mode toe surface 338.

[0217] To retain the convertible plug 324 while the ski shoe is beingconverted, the recommended and preferred pin arrangement would be asshown in FIG. 32A-32D. Two short pivot pins are inserted from both leftand right sides through pivot holes 364 on lugs 362 hanging down formthe outer beams 304 on the body 302. This pivot hole is aligned with thepivot holes 350 going through the outer and inner lugs 352, 354, in theconvertible plug 324. The pivot hole 364 on the binding plate releaselug 358 on the binding attachment plate 328 is sandwiched and securedbetween the outer and inner lug 352, 354, on the convertible plug 324.

[0218] Referring now to FIG. 30, each pivot pin 326 is a quick releasepin comprising a hollow shaft 368 that carries shear loads and a button370 that extends inside of the hollow portion of the hollow shaft 368.The button 370 is springloaded and when pushed in allows retainingball(s) 374 to displace inside the hollow shaft 368. Leverage is gainedby placing the index middle fingers behind and around a handle 376 whilepushing in the button 370 with the thumb. Once the retaining balls aredisplaced inside the hollow shaft 368, the pivot pin assembly will slideout of the pivot holes until an optional key 378 contacts one of thelugs 362 on one side of the body 302. The pivot hole 350 in theconvertible plug 324 could have an additional groove (not shown) thatallows the optional key 378 to pull through the pivot hole only at onealignment angle. The optional key 378 is positioned so that it passesthrough the groove (not shown) and contacts the respective lug 362 onthe body 302. This stop position is a safety feature that simplyprovides for extra pin engagement security and is entirely optional. Ifthe convertible plug 324 needs to be released in order to use thecrampon feature separately, the pivot pin handle 376 is rotated to someother angle to align the optional key 378 the release groove (not shown)in the lug 362 of the body 302. Therefore, an extra twist is required tofully release the pivot pin 326.

[0219] A simpler way to retain the quick release pin 326 without anoptional key 378 is to allow and align the retaining balls 364 to snapand lock into back to back chamfers (not shown) on common faces of therespective lug 362 and an outer flange 380 (FIGS. 26, 27). Chamfering ismuch easier to tool than a feature internal to and locked inside a part.A push of the button 370 would release the ball(s) 374 and the pivot pin326 would slide out. An optional lanyard (not shown) could be used toretain a loose pin. This lanyard could be an elastic “bungee cord” thatpulls itself back into the pin when not used to prevent a possibleentanglement or snagging.

[0220] Referring now to FIGS. 26, 27, and 22, it can be seen that thebinding attachment plate 328, while unitary in construction, may bethought of as comprising three portions, including a center portion 328a, a toe portion 328 b, and a heel portion 328 c. As best seen in FIG.27, the center portion 328 a extends along the region of constant width.The toe portion 328 b extends along the end transition radius to a heelsurface 382. If the skier wants to slow down or stop, weight is simplyshifted to the heel portion 328 c of the binding attachment plate 328.The heel portion 328 c will then push down into the surface of the snowthrough the convertible plug 324 and cause the snow to displace downwardand to the side. The energy required to displace the snow will cause theskier to slow down and finally stop. In snowshoe mode, weight is simplyshifted either to the toe portion 328 b or heel portion 328 c to causethe convertible plug 324 to rotate and engage teeth 382 for gripping andtraction. The width of the binding attachment plate 328 is wider thanthe foot to allow a full range of motion of the foot in snowshoe mode.The binding attachment plate 328 and either a ski side 328 a or snowshoeside 324 b of the convertible plug 324 nest together in the same way bycontact at plug interface surfaces 386 on the binding attachment plate328.

[0221] The binding attachment plate 328 can be constructed in a numberof ways, the preferred one being a one piece injection molding made froma reinforced plastic. Injection molded parts minimize the touch laborrequired to set up each part. The reinforcement could be a longer fibervariety for maximum strength, stiffness, and damage tolerance at minimalweight. Local stiffeners and ribs (not shown) are used to stiffen theskins of an outer shell. The ribs are much smaller and simpler thanother ribs shown for the other designs because the binding attachmentplate 328 works in conjunction with the convertible plug 324 to form aneffective closed box structure. A closed box structure is naturally themost efficient section for maximum torsional stiffness. Optional bindingattach bosses and binding attach holes are not shown, but could bedetailed in a deck 392 to receive standard snowboard style bindings. Thesnowboard style bindings are highly recommended because of theirexcellent support of the foot and ankle. Other types of bindings,including various strap arrangements can be mounted a number of waysthrough either forward strap binding holes 393 a or aft strap bindingholes 393 b as best shown in FIG. 26. The deck 392 and outer flange 380of the binding attachment plate 328 can support any number andarrangements of strap holes or additional flanges or other features thatwould be molded into or would extend above the surface of the deck 392.Various other types of ski, telemark, cross-country, snowshoe, orRottefella bindings can be mounted to standard mounting holes andinserts located on the surface of the deck 392. An optional non-skidsurface 395 feature is shown on the deck surface to keep the foot fromsliding around.

[0222] Referring now to FIGS. 28, 29, and 23A, it can be seen that theconvertible plug 324, while unitary in construction, may be thought ofas being comprised of four portions, including a center portion 324 a,an end portion 324 b, a ski side 324 c and a snowshoe side 324 c. Asbest seen in FIG. 28, the center portion 324 a extends along the regionof constant width. The end portion 324 b extends along the endtransition radius to the end surface 340, the ski side 324 b also has aprimary ski surface 396 b that makes contact with the surface beingtraversed by the user. In soft snow or powder, the secondary ski surfaceor “wings” 398 will also make contact with the snow surface as describedfor the body 302. When the skier wants to ski without braking action orrestraint, weight is shifted forward, and the binding attachment plate328 rotates into the a position in which the primary and secondary skisurfaces 396, 398, of the convertible plug 324 align themselves with theprimary and secondary surfaces 314, 318, of the body 302. In thisposition, the convertible ski 300 offers very little resistance tosliding.

[0223] The snowshoe side 324 c of the convertible plug 324 has an outerflange 398 a with teeth 398 b formed on the edge. These teeth 398 bprovide traction and gripping. Although the teeth are best shown in FIG.28 as integral with the rest of the convertible plug material, anoptional metal or other material insert could be used in an injectedmolded part to make the teeth edges more durable and effective. For costconsiderations, however, the integral material approach has merit.

[0224] The convertible plug 324 can be constructed a number of ways, thepreferred one being a one piece injection molding made from a reinforcedplastic. Injection molded parts minimize the touch labor required to setup each part. The reinforcement could be a longer fiber variety formaximum strength, stiffness, and damage tolerance at minimal weight. Theouter flange 398 a, the end surface 340, lateral ribs 398 d, and thethicker pivot hole rib 398 e would be used to stiffen the primary skisurface 396 and wings 398. The lateral ribs 398 d are much smaller andsimpler than other ribs shown for the other designs because the bindingattachment plate 328 works in conjunction with the convertible plug 324to form an effective closed box structure.

[0225] To prevent snow and ice from accumulating in the cavities of thesnowshoe side 324 c of the convertible plug 324 or the bindingattachment plate 328 and adding unnecessary weight to the device, anoptional stiff closed foam insert material (not shown) could be moldedor cut to fit snugly into the open cavities between the ribs and theshell of the convertible plug 324 or the binding attachment plate 328 toprovide a light weight inexpensive seal. The foam insert could be gluedin place to keep it secure.

[0226] Fourth Embodiment—Dual Bridge Convertible Ski Shoe

[0227] Referring to FIG. 33, there is shown a dual bridge convertibleski shoe 400 of the forth embodiment of the present invention, which isadapted for wearing on either the right foot or left foot. It is to beunderstood that the dual bridge convertible ski shoe 400 is but one of apair of the dual bridge convertible ski shoes of the fourth embodiment,the other of that same pair being a left/right mirror image of the dualbridge convertible ski shoe 400.

[0228] Referring now to FIGS. 33-38B, it can be seen that the dualbridge convertible ski shoe body 402, while unitary in construction, maybe thought of as being comprised of five portions, including a centerportion 402 a, a snowshoe mode forward portion 402 b, a ski mode forwardportion 402 c, a snowshoe mode nose portion 402 d, and a ski mode noseportion 402 e. As best seen in FIG. 38A, the center portion 402 aextends along a cutout region. Outer beams 404 are contained in thenarrow center portion 402 a around an aperture 406. The outer beams 404are proportioned to transition the bending, shear and twist loads fromthe snowshoe mode forward portion 402 c to the ski mode forward portion402 c. The snowshoe mode nose portion 402 d that forms the transition toa forwardmost snowshoe point 408, is curved upward as best-shown in FIG.38B and is styled with an optional bear claw arch 410 pattern. The skimode nose portion 402 e that transitions as shown in FIG. 37A to aforwardmost ski point 412, is curved upward and insures that the body402 stays on top of the snow surface and rides smoothly over smallobstacles or choppy ice and snow. The shape of the various portions canbe changed and styled in various ways without changing or sacrificingthe basic function of the convertible ski shoe 400.

[0229] The dual bridge convertible ski shoe 400 has two primary modes ofoperation. FIGS. 33-34A shows the dual bridge convertible ski shoe 400assembled in a ski mode. FIGS. 35-36A shows the same parts rearrangedand reconfigured in a snowshoe mode.

[0230] A primary snow contact surface 414 of the body 402 makes contactwith the surface being traversed. In soft snow or powder, the secondarysnow contact surface or “wings” 418 will also make contact with the snowsurface. The overall body 402 can be proportioned to have sufficientarea to keep the device floating up in soft snow or deep powder while inski mode or providing sufficient area to prevent sinking in snowshoemode. The combination of primary and secondary snow contact surfaces414, 418, will allow a short ski design, as depicted here, to actsimilarly to a long ski. Current narrow short ski designs are notfunctional in deep powder conditions because of a lack of sufficientlift/surface area.

[0231] The secondary snow contact surface 414 is offset from the primarysnow contact surface 418. The primary snow contact surface is nearlyflat and parallel with respect to the surface being traversed. However,the secondary snow contact surface 418 is not parallel with the groundplane 416. The secondary snow contact surface angle shows the wedgeshape formed by the two secondary snow contact surfaces on each side ofa fin 423. The offset between the primary and secondary contact surfacesdoes allow the dual bridge convertible ski shoe 400 to freely roll fromside to side. In snowshoe mode, the primary snow contact surface 414will sink into soft snow first. The secondary snow contact surface 418will provide enough extra support to keep the user from sinking. Thesecondary snow contact surface 418 is not parallel with the ground andmay tend to wedge into the snow as a result. The overall width or lengthmay have to be adjusted to compensate for this tendency. The extrasurface area may also be required in ski mode to provide sufficientlift.

[0232] As shown best in FIGS. 44A-44C and 45A-45D, the body 402 isconnected to a convertible plug 424 with a pivot pin 426. Rolling motionis imparted by the foot through the pivot pins 426 and into the body402. This rolling motion causes either of two inner edges 428 to diginto the snow for directional control similar to existing short or longski designs. A roll angle is sufficient to allow this rolling motion tooccur without interference from the wings 418. In case of extremerolling due to a fall or extreme slopes, one of two outside edges 430can cause the inner edge to lift off the snow surface. The inner edges428 are simply sharp corners of the parent material of the body 402.Molded in metal inserts could be used to improve the cutting action ofthe edges if more control is desired especially on ice. However, ifextreme roll conditions are experienced and the outside edges cause theinner edges to pry off of the surface, a loss of control could result.If the two edges are similar in construction and geometry, then theywill both perform similarly, and a surprise loss of control will not beexperienced. Therefore, it is recommended that both inner 428 and outeredges 430 have optional inserts or have similar geometry and material.The outer edges 430 as depicted are not optimum and have a large gentleradius and an edge that is not straight and parallel to the inner edges428.

[0233] Referring to FIGS. 37, 37A, 38, and 38A, the body 402 can beconstructed a number of ways, the preferred one being a two piece hollowdesign comprising an upper and lower shell preferably constructed from areinforced injection molded plastic. Injection molded parts minimize thetouch labor required to set up each part. The reinforcement ispreferably a longer fiber variety for maximum strength, stiffness, anddamage tolerance at minimal weight. The two halves preferably have asnap fit design where plastic snap elements permanently lock the twohalves together. Once the two halves lock together, they act as anintegral closed cell box. Using shear bosses would insure that the twohalves would act as a single torque box. This manufacturing method wouldalso be consistent with the other parts. Local stiffeners and internalribs may be used to internally stiffen the skins of the shells. Localareas of higher stress could be strengthened by an increase inthickness. An alternate method to assemble the halves would be to securethem together with fasteners or screws spaced periodically around theperimeter.

[0234] The body 402 could also alternately be constructed as describedabove, except the snap feature(s) could be replaced with a bond orwelding. The body 402 could also alternately be constructed as a onepiece foam filled or hollow part having a skin material, such asepoxy-bonded fiberglass, carbon or a metallic material, such asaluminum, disposed thereover. The skin material could form a bondedassembly with an internal foam core and could be a wet lay up over afoam core to save weight. An alternate means of manufacture wouldinvolve some form of resin transfer molding or vacuum assist resintransfer molding of resin into a closed cavity mold with dry preformbroad goods over an internal mandrel. A hollow design could also beproduced using a rotomolding process.

[0235] Referring to FIGS. 37, 37A, 41, 41A, 42, and 42A, a ski mode toesurface 432 and a snowshoe mode toe surface 434 of the body 402 areshaped not to interfere and contact with their corresponding endsurfaces 435 of the convertible plug 424. A stop located on theconvertible plug 424 will contact the body 402 only in ski mode. Thiscontact will prevent a toe end portion 424 b of the convertible plug 424from digging into the snow surface as the skier leans forward and willprevent a sudden deceleration or loss of control. In snowshoe mode theconvertible plug is flipped over and the stop will pass unrestrictedthrough a stop slot 438 in the body 402. This will insure unrestrainedfully articulating toe and heel engagement in snowshoe mode. If the skimode toe surface 432 and the snowshoe mode toe surface 434 and theircorresponding end surfaces 435 of the convertible plug 424 are radiusedwith the center at a pivot axis, a tight fit will insure that the gap isminimized and foreign objects can not easily get wedged or trapped.

[0236] As shown in FIGS. 44A-44C and 45A-45D, the convertible plug 424is attached to the body 402 by means of a pivot pin 426. The pivot pin426 is mounted along a transverse “Y” axis through pivot holes 442 ineach of the two outer beams 404 of the body 402 and corresponding pivotholes 444 contained in the convertible plug 424. The convertible plug424 can be flipped over to change modes without any manipulation of thepivot pin 426. Binding attachment plates 446 are attached or bound tothe foot and remains attached to the foot during a conversion to skimode from snowshoe mode or vice-versa. The foot is rotated so that thetoe points to the opposite end of the ski shoe body 402.

[0237] Referring to FIGS. 39, 39A, 40, and 40A, the binding attachmentplates 446 are adjustable to one of five positions as best shown in FIG.42A. There are three fingers on each side of each binding attachmentplate 446. The center finger is a shear pin 448, which engages into oneof the pin holes 450 in the convertible plug 424. The fit between thepin hole 450 and the shear pin 448 is tight. The engagement prevents thebinding attachment plate 446 from sliding fore or aft or laterally onthe convertible plug 424. The other two fingers are binding platerelease springs 451. The binding plate release springs 451 have a barbon each end that snaps or springs back and then locks into two pin holes450 on each side of the shear pin 448. The binding plate release springs451 are designed to react tension in the vertical direction between theconvertible plug 424 and the binding attachment plate 446. The fitbetween the binding plate release spring 451 and the pin hole 450 isloose enough to allow the larger barb to pass through the pin hole 450.The binding attachment plates 446 can be released from the convertibleplug 424 by reaching underneath the convertible plug 424 and insertingthe index finger and thumb into the finger access slot 452 and squeezingthe two binding plate release springs 451 together and allowing thebarbs to pop back through the pins holes 450.

[0238] Referring to FIGS. 43 and 43A, the pivot pin 426 is detailed as aquick release pin, although many other types of shear pins would work inthis application. A simple pivot pin similar to the one shown for thebrake ski 100 would work. A removable pivot pin could be made from asimple spring clip (not shown) and could be slipped through a small holetransverse to the longitudinal axis of the pivot pin or a self lockingwing nut could be used. A single removable pivot pin could be placed inany number of multiple pivot hole positions (not shown) located forwardand aft of each other along the longitudinal axis of the ski shoe tocustomize the braking or gripping response. This optional design wherethere are multiple positions for a single removable pivot pin thatpasses through the entire convertible plug 424 would be the bestarrangement for an initial prototype to investigate overall performanceof ski mode and snowshoe mode geometric relationships. This designalternate would require the pivot pin to be repositioned duringtransition between modes if any location were used other than at thecenter of the convertible plug 424.

[0239] The convertible plug 424 is free to rotate about the pivot axis.The pin height is set to keep the pivot pin 426 clear of the groundplane when the body 402 is rolled to either side for cutting in ski modeor walking transverse along inclines in snowshoe mode. The pin height ishigher for this design to allow the convertible plug 424 geometry toproperly match the binding attachment plate 446 geometry. The pivot axisis shown roughly at the middle of the convertible plug 424, so that theconvertible plug will rotate and have equal clearance between the endsurface 435 and the ski mode toe surface 432 and the snowshoe mode toesurface 434.

[0240] Referring now to FIG. 43A, each pivot pin 426 is a quick releasepin comprising a hollow shaft 458 that carries shear loads and a button460 that extends inside of the hollow portion of the hollow shaft 458.The button 460 is springloaded and when pushed in allows retainingball(s) 464 to displace inside the hollow shaft 458. Leverage is gainedby placing the index middle fingers behind and around a handle 466 whilepushing in the button 460 with the thumb. Once the retaining balls aredisplaced inside the hollow shaft 458, the pivot pin assembly will slideout of the pivot holes until the optional key 468 contacts edge of thepivot hole 442 in the outer beam 404 on one side of the body 402. Thepivot hole 444 in the convertible plug 424 could have an additionalgroove (not shown) that allows the optional key 468 to pull through thepivot hole only at one alignment angle. The optional key 468 ispositioned so that it passes through the groove (not shown) and contactsthe edge of the pivot hole 42 in the outer beam 404 on the body 402.This stop position is a safety feature that simply provides for extrapin engagement security and is entirely optional. If the convertibleplug 424 needs to be released in order to use the crampon featureseparately, the pivot pin handle 466 is rotated to some other angle toalign the optional key 468 with a release groove (not shown) in thepivot hole 442 in the outer beam 404 on the body 402. Therefore, anextra twist is required to fully release the pivot pin 426.

[0241] A simpler way to retain the quick release pin 426 without theoptional key 468 is to allow and align the retaining balls 464 to snapand lock into back to back chamfers (not shown) on the common faces ofthe edge of the pivot hole 442 in the outer beam 404 on one side of thebody 402 and an outer flange 470 (FIG. 42) of the convertible plug 424.Chamfering is much easier to tool than a feature internal to and lockedinside a part. A push of the button 460 would release the ball(s) 464and the pivot pin would slide out. An optional lanyard (not shown) couldbe used to retain a loose pin. This lanyard could be an elastic “bungeecord” that pulls itself back into the pin when not used to prevent apossible entanglement or snagging. An alternate design would feature apermanent non-removable pin which would reduce cost.

[0242] Referring now to FIG. 39, 39A, and 40, it can be seen that thebinding attachment plate 446, while unitary in construction, may bethought of as being comprised of two portions, including a straightportion 446 a, and the end portion 446 b. As best seen in FIG. 39A, thestraight portion 446 a extends along the region of constant width. Theend portion extends along the end transition radius to the opposite edgeof the part. There are two binding attachment plates 446. One of them isattached to the toe of the foot and the other to the heel. If the skierwants to slow down or stop, weight is simply shifted to the bindingattachment plate 446 attached on the heel. This binding attachment plate446 attached to the heel will then will push down into the surface ofthe snow through the convertible plug 424 and cause the snow to displacedownward and to the side. The energy required to displace the snow willcause the skier to slow down and finally stop. In snowshoe mode weightis simply shifted to either of the two binding attachment plates tocause the convertible plug to rotate and engage teeth 472 (FIG. 42) forgripping and traction. The width of the binding attachment plate 446 iswider than the foot to allow a full range of motion of the foot insnowshoe mode. The binding attachment plate 446 and either a ski side424 c or snowshoe side 424 d of the convertible plug nest together thesame way by contact at plug interface surfaces 474 on the bindingattachment plate 446.

[0243] Referring to FIGS. 39, 39A, 40, 40A, the binding attachment plate446 can be constructed a number of ways, the preferred one being a onepiece injection molding made from a reinforced plastic. Injection moldedparts minimize the touch labor required to set up each part. Thereinforcement could be a longer fiber variety for maximum strength,stiffness, and damage tolerance at minimal weight. Other types ofbindings, including various strap arrangements can be mounted a numberof ways through strap binding holes 476 as best shown in FIGS. 39A and40. A deck 477 (FIG. 39) and outer flange 478 of the binding attachmentplate 446 can support any number and arrangements of strap holes oradditional flanges or other features that would be molded into or wouldextend above the surface of the deck 477. Various other types oftelemark, cross-country, snowshoe, or Rottefella bindings can be mountedto standard mounting holes and inserts located on the surface of thedeck 477. An optional non skid surface 480 feature is shown on the decksurface to keep the foot from sliding around.

[0244] Referring now to FIGS. 41, 41A, and 42, it can be seen that theconvertible plug 424, while unitary in construction, may be thought ofas being comprised of four portions, including a center portion 424 a,end portions 424 b, a ski side 424 c and a snowshoe side 424 d. As bestseen in FIG. 42, the center portion 424 a extends along a region ofconstant width. The end portion 424 b extends along the end transitionradius to the end surface 435. As best shown in FIG. 41A, the ski side424 c also has a primary ski surface 481 that makes contact with thesurface being traversed. In soft snow or powder, the secondary skisurface or “wings” 483 will also make contact with the snow surface asdescribed for the body 402. When the skier wants to ski without brakingaction or restraint, weight is shifted forward, and the bindingattachment plate 446 rotates into the a position in which the primaryand secondary ski surfaces 481, 483, of the convertible plug 424 alignthemselves with the primary and secondary surfaces 481, 483, of the body402. In this position, the convertible ski 400 offers very littleresistance to sliding.

[0245] Referring to FIG. 42, the snowshoe side 424 d of the convertibleplug 424 has an outer flange 470 with teeth 472 formed on the edge.These teeth 472 provide traction and gripping. Although the teeth arebest shown in FIG. 42 as integral with the rest of the convertible plugmaterial, an optional metal or other material insert could be used in aninjected molded part to make the teeth edges more durable and effective.For cost considerations, however, the integral material approach hasmerit.

[0246] The convertible plug 424 can be constructed a number of ways, thepreferred one being a one piece injection molding made from a reinforcedplastic. Injection molded parts minimize the touch labor required to setup each part. The reinforcement could be a longer fiber variety formaximum strength, stiffness, and damage tolerance at minimal weight. Theouter flange 470, end surface 435, ribs 488, and the thickerlongitudinal rib 490 would be used to stiffen the primary ski surface481 and wings 483.

[0247] To prevent snow and ice from accumulating in the cavities of thesnowshoe side 424 d of the convertible plug 424 or the bindingattachment plate 446 and adding unnecessary weight to the device, anoptional stiff closed foam insert material (not shown) could be moldedor cut to fit snugly into the open cavities between the ribs and theshell of the convertible plug 424 or the binding attachment plate 446 toprovide a light weight inexpensive seal. The foam insert could be gluedin place to keep it secure.

[0248] Fifth Embodiment—Smooth Bottom Convertible Ski Shoe

[0249] FIGS. 46-49C, 52-56, and 57-58B, as well as FIGS. 59-79,illustrate a fifth embodiment, a smooth bottom convertible ski shoe 500,which combines all the benefits of the first, second and thirdembodiments into a single design. FIGS. 46-49C illustrate the smoothbottom convertible ski shoe 500 in ski mode configuration. FIGS. 52-56illustrate the smooth bottom convertible ski shoe 500 in snowshoe modeconfiguration. FIGS. 57-58B illustrate the smooth bottom convertible skishoe 500 in glide mode configuration. The smooth bottom convertible skishoe 500 is a versatile device that enables a person to travel at themost efficient rate across a wide range of winter landscape. The designof the smooth bottom convertible ski shoe has been enhanced to eliminatethe underslung lugs as shown in FIGS. 24 and 25 illustrating theconvertible ski shoe of the third embodiment. The smooth bottomconvertible ski shoe 500 may be quickly transformed from a fast downhillski into an all-terrain snowshoe in seconds.

[0250] Referring to FIG. 46, to accomplish this transformation, the userreaches down and releases one or more binding plate locks. A bindingplate assembly 503 (FIGS. 69-71) stays attached to the binding and footas the foot is lifted up. A convertible plug 504 is attached to a body506 of the smooth bottom convertible ski shoe 500 by means of twocoaxial pivot pin assemblies 508. A convertible plug assembly 510 isthen flipped over or converted. A foot is then reversed in direction andreinserted into an opposite side or snowshoe side 504 d of theconvertible plug assembly 510 and the ski is transformed into asnowshoe. The binding plate locks 502 are then secured.

[0251] Any number of different kinds of standard bindings can beattached to a deck 516 of a binding plate 518. The preferred type ofbinding would a standard snowboard type, such as the K-2 Clicker step-instandard or high back system. Although, any number of Burton bindingsystems, telemark, cross-country, short ski, such as Solomon Snow Blade,or ski shoe bindings or crampons, such as Atlas Mountain Tracker, couldalso be adapted and mounted. The snowboard bindings would be adapted foruse with the foot mounted fore and aft like a standard ski, instead oftransverse as on a snowboard. The more compliant boots used for snowboarding would offer a good balance between flexibility and rigidity forcontrol. The snowboard bindings can be adjusted to allow the optimumfoot angle for pigeon-toed or bow-legged people to align their ski shoesstraight. The cross-country and snowshoe bindings would be moredifficult to control because of their lack of foot restraint. The shortski bindings are designed for use with regular ski boots, which are veryrigid for comfortable walking. Other types of bindings, includingvarious strap arrangements can be mounted a number of ways through strapbinding holes not detailed.

[0252] As illustrated in FIGS. 59-64, the body 506 of the smooth bottomconvertible ski shoe 500, while unitary in construction, may be thoughtof as being comprised of three portions, including a center portion 506a, a snowshoe mode forward portion 506 b, and a ski mode forward portion506 c. In snowshoe mode, most of the body length is located behind apivot axis 520 (FIG. 61A) of the foot. This insures that the back of thesnowshoe, also the ski mode forward portion 506 c, falls against theground so that the snowshoe mode forward portion 506 b of the body 506is lifted up to make it easier to step forward into soft snow. In skimode, the ski mode forward portion 506 c extends out further than theback or snowshoe mode forward portion 506 b. This configuration is thusoptimized for control while skiing.

[0253] The smooth bottom convertible ski shoe 500 can ski in lightpowder because the body 506 has enough lift surface area to keep a skierfloating up. The lift area is comprised of the primary snow contactsurfaces 522, 523, secondary snow contact surfaces 524, 525, andoptional additional levels, such as the tertiary snow contact surface526. The additional drag from the underslung lugs of the convertible skishoe, as shown in FIGS. 24 and 25 above, has been eliminated. The smoothbottom convertible ski shoe 500 is small, light, inexpensive, andcompact. It facilitates skiing with speed and confidence while improvingsafety, even when skiing down tight narrow trails or glade runs betweentrees, because braking action is available by rotating the binding plateand convertible plug assemblies 503 and 510 about the pivot axis 520 byleaning back on the feet. This braking action, which is illustrated inFIGS. 50A-50E and 51, can be used for control and steering without usinginner edge(s) 528 of the ski shoe by cutting back and forth orsnowplowing. It is easier to learn because the skier's reflexesautomatically result in braking action without the need to learn newtechnique. A skier slows down when naturally leaning back on his feet.

[0254] In ski mode, the convertible plug assembly 510 would normally beprevented from rotating forward or toe down about the pivot axis 520.This would prevent excessive and possibly uncontrolled deceleration.There are several redundant features that prevent toe down rotation inski mode. Although only one is required for safety, several differentoptions are detailed here. The first is a pair of hard stops 530 and 531on the convertible plug 504 and body 506 respectfully that contact eachother at a negative pitch angle [532-NOT SHOWN] limit. The second is toinstall a plug rotation limiter pin 534 in one of a plurality of stopholes 536 (FIGS. 62B and 63A-63B), which may include a fixed stop hole,a slotted stop hole, and a store stop hole, position in the body 506.When the plug rotation limiter pin 534 is installed in a fixed stop hole536 position, the convertible plug assembly 510 cannot rotate about thepivot axis 520. The plug rotation limiter pin 534 engages into a stophole 540 of the convertible plug 504. This setting also prevents brakingaction, but may be a preferred setting for some skiers who want theresponse of a traditional short ski.

[0255] If the plug rotation limiter pin 534 is installed in a slottedstop hole 536, a limited range of pitch angle motion is allowed. Thissetting would be useful to allow braking but prevent excessive negativepitch rotation and possible loss of control of the ski shoe and serve asa redundant toe down positive pitch angle stop. The plug rotationlimiter pin 534 engages into a ski mode stop slot 542 of the convertibleplug 504. The ski mode stop slot 542 is not shown to fully penetrate theconvertible plug 504 so that rigidity is not compromised. This limitedheel down pitch angle 532 motion also has a benefit during falls and canhelp prevent or minimize injuries, including ACL injuries. Ski boots arebeing developed that provide this extra degree of motion, but providingfor it in the ski itself is novel. This approach can be used in thebrake ski of the first embodiment and extended to longer ski versions.

[0256] Another ski mode would be to place the plug rotation limiter pin534 in a store stop hole 536 position. In this position, the convertibleplug assembly 510 is free to rotate in the heel down pitch angle untilthe back of the user's boot contacts an aperture tube 546 on the body506. This extra pitch angle motion may be useful in steep narrow powderruns where the skier can stand comfortably upright and maintain acontrolled descent without cutting and accelerating abruptly. The plugrotation limiter pin 534 does not engage the convertible plug 504 wheninserted into the store stop hole 536. In any of the three positions forthe plug rotation limiter pin 534, a handle 548 is secured by snappingit into a pin clip 550.

[0257] The convertible plug assembly 510 can also be set to provide somecontrolled degree of toe down pitch angle rotation before hitting a stopin ski mode. This can be used for an optional glide mode, as illustratedin FIGS. 57, 58A, and 58B, where a binding is used that releases theheel similar to cross-country skis. The toe would pivot slightly forwardto allow a grabber feature or shovel to dig in slightly and give thecross-country skier a toe hold with which to push off. The smooth bottomconvertible ski shoe 500 may be quickly transformed from a fast,downhill ski into a glide ski for flat, gradual up or down slopes inseconds. To accomplish this transformation, the user reaches down andreleases the binding plate lock(s) and removes or backs out the plugrotation limiter pin 534 by popping the handle 548 out of the pin clip550. The binding plate assembly 503 stays attached to the binding andfoot as the foot is lifted up. The convertible plug assembly 510 is thenflipped over or converted with teeth 552 down in the snowshoe modeposition (FIGS. 50-56). The foot is reinserted in the same directionwith a toe portion 518 b of the binding plate 518 pointed toward the skimode forward portion 506 c into the opposite side or snowshoe side 504 dof the convertible plug assembly 504 and the ski is transformed into aglide ski. The binding plate lock(s) are then secured. The plug rotationlimiter pin 534 is then reengaged into the glide stop slot 554 and thehandle 548 is returned to the pin clip 534. The glide stop slot 554 isdesigned to allow some degree of toe down pivot motion about the pivotaxis 520 so that the forward teeth 552 can dig into and grip the snow.The glider typically pushes off with the lagging foot, so the toenaturally pushes down on the toe portion 518 b of the binding plate 518.Pressure is put on the heel portion 518 c of the binding plate 518 bythe leading or gliding foot. The plug rotation limiter pin 534 isengaged through the slotted stop hole 536 on the body 506 and into theglide stop slot 554 that prevents the convertible plug assembly 510 fromrotating at a positive pivot angle. The teeth remain retracted above aground plane 555 (FIGS. 55A and 55B) and allow drag free gliding.

[0258] The conversion into snowshoe mode is then accomplished simply byremoving or backing out the plug rotation limiter pin 534 by popping thehandle 548 out of the pin clip 550. The plug rotation limiter pin 534can then be stowed in a neutral position by inserting it into theoptional store stop hole 536. In this position, the convertible plugassembly 510 is free to rotate in the toe down or heel down pitch angleuntil the back or front of the user's boot contacts the aperture tube546 on the body 506 (FIGS. 55A and 55B). This extra pitch angle motionis especially helpful on descent where the skier can stand, walk, or runcomfortably upright. Other snowshoe designs allow toe down pitch anglemotion already, but the smooth bottom convertible ski shoe 500 allowsfull foot motion about the pivot axis 520. The plug rotation limiter pin534 does not engage the convertible plug 504 when inserted into thestore stop hole 536. The smooth bottom convertible ski shoe 500 becomesa fully articulating snowshoe and the user can walk or run up or downsteep slopes at any angle with comfort. A conventional snowshoe forcesthe foot into a zero roll angle with respect to a sloping ground plane555. This is especially uncomfortable if the user is not climbing ordescending directly up or down a slope but is traversing at an offangle. The smooth bottom convertible ski shoe 500 can freely roll at anangle that allows the user to stand, walk, or run in a comfortableupright position. Therefore, the user maintains maximum control and gripin any slope angle.

[0259] An optional feature of the smooth bottom convertible ski shoe 500allows the teeth 552 to be adjusted into several different pin heights.Although a production design would not require the multiple heights, theoptimal pin height can be determined during testing. To change theheight of the convertible plug assembly 510 and binding plate assembly503, the pivot pin assemblies 508 are partially backed out of pivotholes 560. Pivot pins 562 are mounted along a transverse “Y” axisthrough pivot holes 560 in each of two beams 564 of the body 506 andcorresponding primary pivot holes 566 contained in the convertible plug504.

[0260] Referring to FIG. 77, this is accomplished by prying each clipkeeper 568 over the top of the beam 564. A clip 569 is then rotatedabout a clip pivot 570 until it lies along an approximate horizontalplane that is parallel to the ground plane 555. This motion will causethe attached clip to rotate about a clip retention pin 571 and pull thepivot pin 562 partially out of the pivot hole 560. A pivot pin slot 572provides clearance between the clip 569 and pivot pin 562. The pivot pin562 backs out of the primary pivot hole 566, but remains engaged in apivot hole slot 573. The convertible plug assembly 510 is now free tolower with respect to the body 506 until the pivot pin 562 is alignedwith a secondary pivot hole 574. The clip 569 is then rotated as theclip pivot 570 is pushed into a clip pivot slot 575 on the body 506.This prying action forces the pivot pin 562 to engage the secondarypivot hole 574. The clip keeper 568 is then forced into locked positionover the beam 566. The biting action of the teeth 552 is now moreaggressive. The convertible plug 504 must be returned to the originalprimary position to properly align the primary snow contact surface 522of the body 506 with the primary ski surface 523 of the convertible plug504 when going back into ski mode.

[0261] If very tight conditions are encountered such as climbing amongsnow covered rocks, the combined binding plate/convertible plugassemblies 503, 510, function as crampons and can be released and usedas separate devices by pulling the clip 569 out further to withdraw thepivot pin from the pivot hole slot 573.

[0262] It is to be understood that the smooth bottom convertible skishoe 500 shown in FIG. 46 is but one of a pair of the smooth bottomconvertible ski shoes of the fifth embodiment, the other of that samepair being identical thereto.

[0263] As best illustrated in FIG. 59, the body 506 further includes asnowshoe mode forward pocket 506 d and a ski mode forward pocket 506 e,which are recesses that stiffen and lighten the body by closing out theaperture tube 546 and perimeter tube 576. The center portion 506 aextends along a cutout or aperture 577 region. The outer beams 564 arecontained in the narrow center portion 506 a around the aperture 577.The outer beams 564 are proportioned to transition the bending, shearand twist loads from the snowshoe mode forward portion 506 b to the skimode forward portion 506 c. The snowshoe mode forward portion 506 b thatforms the transition to a forwardmost snowshoe point 578, is curvedupward and is styled with an optional bear claw arch 579 pattern. Theski mode forward portion 506 c that transitions to a forwardmost skipoint 580, is curved upward and insures that the body 506 stays on topof the snow surface and rides smoothly over small obstacles or choppyice and snow. The shape of the various portions can be changed andstyled in various ways without changing or sacrificing the basicfunction of the convertible ski shoe 500. The design can also be made tofunction without the perimeter tube 576 or aperture tube 546.

[0264] The smooth bottom convertible ski shoe 500 has two primary modesof operation. FIG. 48 shows the smooth bottom convertible ski shoe 500assembled in a ski mode. FIG. 56 shows the same parts rearranged andreconfigured into a snowshoe mode. In addition, there are four secondaryski modes, including glide ski, fixed ski, ski with brake stop, and skiwithout brake stop. Additionally, there are two secondary snowshoemodes, which are with flush teeth and with protruding teeth, aspreviously described. The binding plate assembly 503 is attached orbound to the foot and remains attached to the foot during a conversionto ski mode from snowshoe mode or vice-versa. The toe portion 518 b ofthe binding attachment plate is mounted in the same direction as the toeof the foot. The toe portion 518 b of the binding plate is inserted inthe convertible plug assembly 510 pointed in the direction of the skimode forward portion 506 c of the body 506 for all of the primary andsecondary ski modes. The toe portion 518 b of the binding plate 518 isinserted in the convertible plug assembly 510 pointed in the directionof the snowshoe mode forward portion 506 b of the body 506 for all ofthe primary and secondary snowshoe modes.

[0265] Referring to FIGS. 61A-61E, the primary snow contact surface 522of the body 506 makes contact with the surface being traversed. In softsnow or powder, the secondary snow contact surface 524 and tertiary snowcontact surface 526 will also make contact with the snow surface. Theoverall body 506 can be proportioned to have sufficient area to keep thedevice floating up in soft snow or deep powder while in ski mode orproviding sufficient area to prevent sinking in snowshoe mode. Thecombination of primary snow contact surface 522, secondary snow contactsurface 524, and tertiary snow contact surface 526 will allow a shortski design to act similarly to a long ski. Current narrow short skidesigns are not functional in deep powder conditions because of a lackof sufficient lift surface area.

[0266] Since the secondary snow contact surface 524 is offset from theprimary snow contact surface 522, both surfaces can be nearly flat andparallel with respect to the surface being traversed, while allowing thesmooth bottom convertible ski shoe to freely roll from side to side at aroll. The relationship between the primary snow contact surface 522 andtertiary snow contact surface 526 is similar. The tertiary snow contactsurface 526 is an optional styling element that nicely blends the bearclaw arches 579 into the lines of the ski shoe. In snowshoe mode, theprimary snow contact surface 522 will sink into soft snow first. Thecathedral shaped profile of the secondary snow contact surface 524 andtertiary snow contact surface 526 and the teeth 552 will then providelateral stability. The secondary snow contact surface 524 and tertiarysnow contact surface 526 will provide enough extra support to keep theuser from sinking. The secondary snow contact surface 524 and tertiarysnow contact surface 526 are almost parallel with the ground and willtend not to wedge into the snow as a result.

[0267] Referring to FIG. 46, the body 506 is connected to theconvertible plug 504 with two coaxial pivot pin assemblies 508. Rollingmotion is imparted by the foot through the pivot pins 562 and into thebody 506. This rolling motion causes either of the inner edges 528 todig into the snow for directional control similar to existing short orlong ski designs. The roll angle is sufficient to allow this rollingmotion to occur without interference from the secondary snow contactsurface 524 or tertiary snow contact surface 526. In case of extremerolling due to a fall or extreme slopes, an outside edge 584 can causethe corresponding inner edge 528 to lift off the snow surface. The inneredges 528 are simply sharp corners of the parent material of the smoothbottom convertible ski shoe body 506. Molded in metal inserts could beused to improve the cutting action of the edges if more control isdesired especially on ice. However, if extreme roll conditions areexperienced and the outside edges 584 cause the inner edges 583 to pryoff of the surface, a loss of control could result. If the two edges aresimilar in construction and geometry, then they will both performsimilarly, and a surprise loss of control will not be experienced.

[0268] In view of the foregoing, it is recommended that both inner edges528 and outer edges 584 have optional inserts or have similar geometryand material. The outer edges 584 have been designed to keep themstraight and parallel to the inner edges 528 for maintaining a similaror improved edging response for maximum safety. The outer edges 584 areactually slightly sharper to increase the edging force and provide anextra degree of control in the case of an excessive roll angle. Optionalintermediate edges 585 (FIG. 64) and 586 (FIG. 75) are primary a stylingfeature and do not serve to significantly change the edging response. Ifthe inner and outer edges 528 and 584 are improved with optionalinserts, there would not be a requirement to do the same for theintermediate edges 585 and 586. Referring to FIGS. 77 and 78, the clip569 stows in a clip recess 587 to make a beam outer surface 588 flushand straight. This insures that contact of the left hand smooth bottomconvertible ski shoe 500 with the other does not entangle with and tendsto straighten the two relative to each other to avoid crossed skis.

[0269] The body 506 can be constructed a number of ways, the preferredone being a two piece hollow design. The shells are preferably made froma tough injection molded plastic, such as a polycarbonate acrylic blend,which has a pleasant translucent look. Injection molded parts minimizethe touch labor required to set up each part. An alternate constructionwould be of long or short fiber reinforcement for maximum strength,stiffness, and damage tolerance at minimal weight. The two halvespreferably have a snap fit design where plastic snap elements wouldpermanently lock the two halves together. Once the two halves locktogether, they function as an integral closed cell box. Shear bossesensure that the two halves function as a unit. This manufacturing methodwould also be consistent with the other parts. Local stiffeners andinternal ribs (not shown) are used to internally stiffen the skins ofthe shells. Local areas of higher stress could be strengthened by anincrease in thickness. An alternate method to assemble the halves wouldbe to secure them together with fasteners or screws spaced periodicallyaround the perimeter.

[0270] The body 506 could alternately be constructed as described above,with the snap features replaced with a bond or welding. The body 506 mayalternately be constructed as a one piece foam filled or hollow part.The skin material could be made from epoxy-bonded fiberglass, carbon, ora metallic material, such as aluminum. The skins can form a bondedassembly with an internal foam core. The skins can be a wet lay up overa foam core to save weight. An alternate means of manufacture would beto use some form of resin transfer molding or vacuum assist resintransfer molding of resin into a closed cavity mold with dry preformbroad goods over an internal mandrel. A hollow design could also beproduced using a rotomolding process or a reaction injection moldingprocess.

[0271] Referring to FIGS. 63, 70B, and 71B, a ski mode toe surface 589of the body 506 and a snowshoe mode toe surface 590 are shaped not tointerfere and contact with corresponding end interface surfaces 591 ofthe convertible plug 504. The ski mode toe surface 589 and the snowshoemode toe surface 590 with their corresponding end interface surfaces 591of the convertible plug 504 are radiused with the center at the pivotaxis 520, a tight fit will insure that the gap is minimized and foreignobjects can not easily get wedged or trapped.

[0272] Referring to FIGS. 77 and 78, the pivot pin assembly 508 isdetailed as a solid pin, although many other types of shear pins wouldwork including a quick release pit pin in this application. A simplespring clip (not shown) could be slipped through a small hole transverseto the longitudinal axis of the pivot pin or a self-locking wing nutcould be used to retain the pin. A removable pivot pin could be placedin any number of multiple pivot hole positions (not shown) locatedforward and aft of each other along the longitudinal axis of the skishoe to customize the braking or gripping response.

[0273] The convertible plug 504 is free to rotate about the pivot axis520. The pin height is set to keep the pivot pin assembly 508 clear ofthe surface being traversed when the body 506 is rolled to either sidefor cutting in ski mode or walking transverse along inclines in snowshoemode. The pivot axis 520 is shown roughly at the middle of theconvertible plug 504, so that the convertible plug will rotate and haveequal clearance between the end interface surface 591 and the ski modetoe surface 589 and the snowshoe mode toe surface 590.

[0274] An optional lanyard (not shown) could be used to retain a loosepivot pin assembly 508 or plug rotation limiter pin 534. This lanyardcould be an elastic “bungee cord” that pulls itself back into the pinwhen not used to prevent a possible entanglement or snagging.

[0275] Referring to FIGS. 66 and 74, the binding attachment plate 518,while unitary in construction, may be thought of as being comprised ofthree portions, including a center portion 518 a, the toe portion 518 b,and a heel portion 518 c. The center portion 518 a extends along theregion of constant width. The toe portion extends along the endtransition radius to the front tip, and the heel portion 518 b extendsalong an end transition radius to the rear tip. If the skier wants toslow down or stop, weight is simply shifted to the heel portion 518 b ofthe binding attachment plate 518. The heel portion 518 b then will pushdown into the surface of the snow through the convertible plug assembly504 and cause the snow to displace downward and to the side. The energyrequired to displace the snow will cause the skier to slow down andfinally stop. In snowshoe mode weight is simply shifted to either thetoe portion 518 b or heel portion 518 c to cause the convertible plug torotate and engage the teeth 552 for gripping and traction. The width ofthe binding attachment plate 518 is wider than the foot to allow a fullrange of motion of the foot in snowshoe mode. The binding attachmentplate 518 and either a ski side 504 c or a snowshoe side 504 d of theconvertible plug 504 nest together the same way by contact at pluginterface surfaces 592 on the binding attachment plate 518.

[0276] The binding attachment plate 518 can be constructed a number ofways, the preferred one being a one piece injection molding made from atoughened or reinforced plastic. Injection molded parts minimize thetouch labor required to set up each part. The reinforcement could be alonger fiber variety for maximum strength, stiffness, and damagetolerance at minimal weight. Although the binding attachment plate 518is designed as a solid thick plate, once the bindings are selected,binding attach bosses 593 a and holes 593 b can be located in which tomount the bindings. Local stiffeners, an outer flange 594 a, ribs 594 b,or boss support flanges 594 c could be located like designs in previousembodiments to lighten the part and would be used to stiffen the skinsof the outer shell 594 d and deck 516. The binding attachment plate 518works in conjunction with the convertible plug 504 to form an effectiveclosed box structure. A closed box structure is naturally the mostefficient section for maximum torsional stiffness. Optional bindingattach bosses and binding attach holes are not shown, but could bedetailed in the deck to receive standard style bindings. The deck andoptional outer of the binding attachment plate 518 can support anynumber and arrangements of strap holes or additional flanges or otherfeatures that would be molded into or would extend above the surface ofthe deck. Various other types of ski, telemark, cross-country, snowshoe,or Rottefella bindings can be mounted to standard mounting holes andinserts located on the surface of the deck. An optional non-skid surface595 feature not shown on the deck surface would help keep the foot fromsliding around.

[0277] Referring to FIGS. 80-87. The binding plate assembly 503 iscomprised of several other features that form a locking mechanism withthe convertible plug assembly 510. Although details of the lockingassembly are shown, any number of alternate lock details could besubstituted to do the same job. A plug attach stud 596 a is shownintegral with the binding attachment plate 518. This plug attach studmay be more suited to a separate metal piece to insure reliability. Tominimize the stresses between the plug attach stud 596 a and the deck516, a generous plug attach stud fillet 596 b is required. A lock 596 cis assembled by slipping the sleeve 596 d on the plug attach stud 596 a.The flare 596 e covers up the fillet 596 b and prevents adequateperiodic inspection for safety. The optional upper oblong shear block596 f has a sleeve hole 596 g that is then slipped over the sleeve 596 dof the lock 596 c. The upper oblong shear block 596 f is installed suchthat a key 596 h engages into an anti-rotation keyway 596 i on thebinding attachment plate 518. This upper oblong shear block 596 f servesto reduce bending in the plug attach stud 596 a by transferring shearbetween the surface 596 j and the fillet 596 b and an inner hole surface596 k.

[0278] Next, a middle oblong lock block 597 a is fitted over the sleeve596 d of the lock 596 c through a sleeve hole 597 a′. Optionalanti-rotation flats 597 b are aligned with the anti-rotation flats 596 lon the sleeve 596 d of the lock 596 c. These parts could be alternatelypinned or bonded into place. The middle oblong lock block 597 a isreleased by rotating a lock handle 597 c from a distal lock keeper 597 dposition to the mesial lock keeper 597 e position. The design could alsobe set up to release in the distal lock keeper 597 d position if desiredfor clearance or other reasons. The lock is retained at the mesial lockkeeper 597 e or distal lock keeper 597 d by a spring retention element597 f. The spring retention element 597 f is detailed to the bifurcatedneck 597 g with a relief radius 597 h to prevent high local stresses andcracking. The middle oblong lock block 597 a is actuated with a largeleverage from an offset of an arm 597 i offset. An arm kink 597 j isdesigned for a tight fit along the edge chamfer 597 k. The lock islocated in the lock arm recess 597 l and can swing from lock stop edge597 m to lock stop edge 597 m. This lock configuration is called ahidden lock, because the lock is contained in a lock arm recess 597 lunder the binding attachment plate 518. In the distal lock position, themiddle oblong lock block 597 a is turned 90 degrees out of alignmentwith the oblong hole 597 o in the lock plug 597 p and a lock slot 597 qin the convertible plug 504. The binding attachment plate 518,therefore, cannot pull up away from the convertible plug assembly 510,as an upper contact surface 597 v of the middle oblong lock block 597 ainterferes with the contact surface 231 on the lock plug 597 p or alocking contact surface 597 t on the binding attachment plate 518. Themiddle oblong lock block 597 a transfers compression between upper andlower contact surfaces 597 r, 597 u.

[0279] A lower oblong cap block 598 a is then assembled by aligning astud receiver hole 598 b on the sleeve 596 b. Anti-rotation flats 598 cand 598 d are aligned and an optional lower block retainer pin 598 e isinserted through the retainer pin holes 598 f and 598 g. The loweroblong cap block 598 a could also be bonded in place. A guide chamfer ofthe lower oblong cap block 598 a aids in aligning and guiding thebinding plate assembly 503 with the oblong hole 597 o into the lock plug597 b or the lock slot 597 q in the convertible plug 504. A contactsurface 598 h transmits compression into the lower contact surface 597u.

[0280] Referring to FIGS. 69A-71C and 74-76, the convertible plug 504,while unitary in construction, may be thought of as being comprised offour portions, including a center portion 504 a, an end portion 504 b, aski side 504 c, and a snowshoe side 504 d. The center portion 504 aextends along the region of constant width. The end portion 504 bextends along the end transition radius to the end interface surface599. The ski side 504 c also has a primary ski surface 523 that makescontact with the ground plane 555. In soft snow or powder, the secondaryski surface 525 will also make contact with the snow surface asdescribed for the body 506. When the skier wants to ski without brakingaction or restraint, weight is shifted forward, and the bindingattachment plate 518 rotates into the a position in which the primaryski surface 523 and secondary ski surface 525 of the convertible plug504 align themselves with the primary 522 and secondary surfaces 524 ofthe body 506. In this position, the smooth bottom convertible ski shoe500 offers very little resistance to sliding.

[0281] The snowshoe side 504 d of the convertible plug 504 has an outershell 599 a with teeth 552 formed on the edge. These teeth 552 providetraction and gripping. Although the teeth are integral with the rest ofthe convertible plug material, an optional metal or other materialinsert could be used in an injected molded part to make the teeth edgesmore durable and effective. For cost considerations, however, theintegral material approach has merit.

[0282] The convertible plug 504 can be constructed a number of ways, thepreferred one being a one piece injection molding made from a toughenedor reinforced plastic. Injection molded parts minimize the touch laborrequired to set up each part. The reinforcement could be a longer fibervariety for maximum strength, stiffness, and damage tolerance at minimalweight. The outer shell 599 a, end interface surface 599, lateral ribs599 b, and the pivot hole rib 599 c would be used to stiffen the primaryski surface 523 and secondary ski surface 525. The pivot hole rib 599 ccould be better integrated into the lug tooth pad-up 599 d to stiffenbending loads. The lateral ribs 599 b and diagonal ribs 599 e could besimplified if the binding attachment plate 518 worked in conjunctionwith the convertible plug 504 to form an effective closed box structure.

[0283] The convertible plug assembly 510 includes a lock plug 597 p(FIG. 72) that is necessary in order to injection mold the part withouta washout mandrel or a trapped cavity. The lock plug ears 599 g help toalign the part in the barrels 599 h. The lock plug 597 p can be alignedproperly and bonded into barrels 599 h and lands 599 i of a fayingsurface 2599 j to the convertible plug 504. The lock plug 597 p can alsobe optionally secured into the barrel 599 h by installing a retentionpin into the retention pin holes 599 k and 599 l. The optional metalpivot pin doubler 599 m (FIG. 73) is used as a safely device duringtests to insure the pivot pin 562 does not break out of the convertibleplug 504.

[0284] To prevent snow and ice from accumulating in the cavities of thesnowshoe side 504 d of the convertible plug 504, an optional stiffclosed foam insert material (not shown) could be molded or cut to fitsnugly into the open cavities between the ribs and the shell of theconvertible plug 504 or the binding attachment plate 518 to provide alight weight inexpensive seal. The foam insert could be glued in placeto keep it secure.

[0285] It is understood that several modifications, changes andsubstitutions are intended in the foregoing disclosure and in someinstances some features of the invention will be employed without acorresponding use of other features. Accordingly, it is appropriate thatthe appended claims be construed broadly and in a manner consistent withthe scope of the invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A snowshoe comprising: a peripheral platform; adeck spanning an interior of the peripheral platform; a portion forreceiving a shoe of a user mounted on the deck wherein the portion fitsin an aperture in the platform and wherein the portion pivots to allow afront of the portion and a rear of the portion to move in an upwardmotion and a downward motion; and a plurality of traction portions whichextend generally downward from a horizontal plane of the deck.
 2. Theshowshoe of claim 1 wherein the platform includes a first portion in thefront of the portion for receiving a shoe and a second portion in therear of the portion for receiving a shoe and wherein a weight of thefirst portion is less than a weight of the second portion.
 3. Thesnowshoe of claim 1 wherein the platform is multi-leveled.
 4. Thesnowshoe of claim 1 wherein the plurality of traction portions.
 5. Theshowshoe of claim 1 wherein the portion for receiving a shoe pivots andretards movement when pivoted and the plurality of longitudinal tractionportions extend below the horizontal plane of the deck.
 6. A skicomprising: a peripheral platform; a deck spanning an interior of aperipheral platform; a flat bottom surface of the deck, wherein the flatbottom portion is used to traverse a snow covered area; and a portionfor receiving a shoe of a user mounted on the deck wherein the portionpivots and retards movement when the portion extends downward below theflat bottom surface of the deck.
 7. The ski of claim 4 wherein theplatform includes a first portion in front of the portion for receivinga shoe and a second portion behind the portion for receiving a shoe andwherein the first portion is longer than the second portion.
 8. Acombination snowshoe and ski comprising: a peripheral platform; a deckspanning an interior of a peripheral platform; a portion for receiving ashoe of a user mounted on the deck; a flat bottom surface of the deck,wherein the flat bottom portion is used to traverse a snow covered area,and a removable plurality of traction portions which extend generallydownward from the flat bottom surface of the deck.
 9. The combinationsnowshoe and ski of claim 6 wherein the platform includes a firstportion in front of the portion for receiving a shoe and a secondportion behind the portion for receiving a shoe and wherein the firstportion is longer than the second portion when in ski mode.
 10. Thecombination snowshoe and ski of claim 6 wherein the platform includes afirst portion in front of the portion for receiving a shoe and a secondportion behind the portion for receiving a shoe and wherein the firstportion is shorter than the second portion when in snowshoe mode. 11.The combination snowshoe and ski of claim 6 wherein the longitudinaltraction portions are attached by means of a pivot pin which passesthrough the platform, through one of a plurality of holes in thelongitudinal traction portion, and into a matching one of a plurality ofholes in the opposite side of the platform whereby the platform haselevated extensions above and exterior to the deck of the platform.